Mozambique has been marred by post-election protests and violence after Mozambique’s election results were announced.
The Border Management Authority (BMA) has temporarily closed the Lebombo port of entry following violent protests in Mozambique.
Mozambique has been marred by post-election violence after Mozambique’s election results were announced.
At least ten people have been killed and 73 injured since the since the demonstrations began.
Watch BMA commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato speaking about the closure of the Lembombo border post
Border Management Authority’s Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato confirms the temporary closure of the Lebombo border post due to ‘security threats’ from the Mozambican side as the country battles post-election violence. #Newzroom405
Watch: https://t.co/hd0HROo2jy pic.twitter.com/QoP30yzYQR
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) November 5, 2024
Mozambique’s defence minister threatened to send in the military to halt the deadly post-electoral protests he said were aimed at overthrowing the government.
Protests
BMA commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said they made the decision the following reports of vehicles being torched on the Mozambican side of the border post.
“Those protests started to move towards an area called Matola and then from there it started to towards the port of entry called Ressano Garcia on the Mozambican side and on our side it is Lebombo port of entry.
“We have been monitoring the developments. There has been some skirmishes or protests on the N4 on their side leading into Maputo. The situation became very much serious… So, to that extent we realised we cannot continue with the border management activities and allow people to cross into the Mozambican side,”Masiapato.
BREAKING | The Border Management Authority has temporarily closed the Lebombo Border Post. This is due to protests in the Ressano Garcia Border Post all the way into Capital of Mozambique following the recent general elections. This is a developing story. pic.twitter.com/i6GkRULogh
— Mpumalanga Mirror (@MPMirror) November 5, 2024
ALSO READ: Mozambique’s ruling party re-elected with nearly 71% amid protests
Suspend travel
Masiapato said a seven Mozambican police officers had taken refuge with the South African border security and were being assisted by officials at the post.
He advised all stakeholders to suspend travel through Lebombo port until further notice.
“For now we cannot guarantee as to what will happen, safety is the most fundamental issue, so we will not be able to reopen the port unless the Mozambican authorities are able to give us that guarantee people will have a safe passage throughout the road into the Mozambican side.
Masiapatoa said the BMA and the South African Revenue Service (SARS) would continue to provide updates and notify stakeholders as soon as the port is safe for crossing.
Violent protests erupted in Maputo after Mozambique’s election results were announced on 24 October.
ALSO READ: Let’s lobby AU to rescue Mozambique
