Former Renamo guerrilla fighters have initiated protests demanding the resignation of party leader Ossufo Momade due to dissatisfaction with his leadership and the party’s electoral performance. Spokesperson Fernando Mafenhure articulated concerns regarding Momade’s silence and alleged collusion with the ruling party, indicating a push for new leadership within Renamo.
In recent protests led by former fighters of Mozambique’s Renamo party, demonstrators demanded the resignation of Ossufo Momade, the current leader of the party. These protests began with the closure of the Renamo provincial delegation in Chimoio, Manica, where participants used chains and burned leaflets depicting Momade. They hold him accountable for the party’s disappointing performance in the general elections held on 9 October of the previous year.
Fernando Mafenhure, a spokesperson for the protesters, expressed sentiments that many former guerrillas believe Momade has exhausted his capacity to lead. Mafenhure stated, “Ossufo Momade has already given all that he had for the party. We think it’s time for him to go home and participate in party activities as a simple member.”
Mafenhure further criticized Momade’s leadership since he took over in 2019, claiming a decline in Renamo’s popularity and efficacy. He lamented, “He has shown that he is a bad leader. He is not dynamic. Since he took over, the party has been sinking.”
Recalling the late Afonso Dhlakama, who led Renamo with a focus on democracy, Mafenhure highlighted a sense of disillusionment among the fighters. He indicated that they were not seeing results from their past efforts in the conflict, remarking on potential complicity between Momade and the ruling Frelimo party during the recent elections.
Mafenhure conveyed frustration over what he perceives as Momade’s collusion with Frelimo, stating, “With our late leader, Afonso Dhlakama, the reaction would have been immediate. But Momade is calm and silent. This shows he is completely owned by Frelimo.”
In retaliation against Momade’s leadership, protesters plan to progressively close all district delegations, demanding change within the party’s leadership. Mafenhure affirmed, “When he leaves, we must sit down and find another figure within the party to become president.” The protests reflect growing unrest among Renamo’s ranks as they push for revitalization and effective representation in Mozambican politics.
The Renamo party protests signify a significant factional discontent among former guerrilla fighters regarding Ossufo Momade’s leadership. Accusations of poor management and alleged collusion with the ruling party underline the urgent demands for his resignation. As the demonstrators escalate their efforts in the provinces, calls for a new leadership reflect a desire for revitalization and democratic integrity within Renamo. The situation highlights the challenges faced by former combatants in achieving representation and influence in the political landscape of Mozambique.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
