The Chair of the Commonwealth Observer Group in Mozambique, H.E. Dr. Kenny Anthony, has on behalf of the Group, condemned the killing of Elvino Dias, the lawyer representing Mozambican politician Venâncio Mondlane and Paulo Guambe an official from the PODEMOS party.
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of Elvino and Paulo. Dr. Anthony urges the authorities to expedite their investigations to provide clarity on this tragic incident and to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Dr. Anthony condemns all forms of violence and continues to call upon all political party leaders and their supporters to continue to show restraint and magnanimity, to continue to uphold principles of peace and respect the rule of law, and to prioritise national unity and stability. He further noted that the Commonwealth Observer Group’s mandate is to observe and evaluate the pre-election environment, polling day activities, and the post-election period. In this context, Dr. Anthony reaffirmed that the group remains vigilant in following the ongoing situation in Mozambique, including the announcement of interim election results and the general post-election atmosphere.
He emphasised that the Commonwealth will continue to stand with the people of Mozambique throughout this process.
The Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) arrived in Maputo on 2 October and released its interim statement on 11 October.
