Frelimo aims to extend its long-standing rule in Mozambique, which faces poverty and unrest. Of the 35 million citizens, half are registered to vote. The electorate struggles against an Islamist insurgency in the north, which has displaced thousands and stalled multi-billion-dollar gas projects. “The next president must create jobs. We are tired of hearing promises,” says Amandio Sergio, a small business owner in the capital.
Frelimo first allowed elections in 1994. The party faces accusations of vote rigging, which it denies. Renamo, the opposition party, typically comes in a distant second. This year, independent candidate Venancio Mondlane also challenges both parties and energizes disillusioned voters. However, according to analyst Dercio Alfazema, he lacks the networks needed to secure rural support.
“This election is different because we have new actors but Frelimo has a big probability to win,” Alfazema notes. Daniel Chapo, Frelimo’s candidate, brings local government experience. He does not connect to past corruption scandals. Polls close at 6 p.m. (1600 GMT), and counting will begin immediately. Officials also expect to announce results within two weeks. (Reuters)
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