The Lebombo border between South Africa and Mozambique remains closed after violent protests erupted on the Mozambican side in Ressano Garcia, a border town in Maputo.
Story Summary:
- Violent post-election protests in Mozambique have forced the closure of the Lebombo border, with infrastructure and vehicles torched in Ressano Garcia.
- South Africa’s BMA is working with Mozambican authorities to monitor the situation and safeguard South African citizens and officials.
- Mozambican Defence Minister has threatened military intervention to halt the protests, with large-scale demonstrations planned for Thursday.
Lebombo border closure: Here’s the latest news
According to South Africa’s Border Management Authority (BMA), the decision to close the port of entry on Tuesday was made to protect the safety of travellers, traders, and transporters amid escalating unrest.
Vehicles, buildings, and guard stations on the Mozambican side have been set ablaze, forcing seven Mozambican police officers to seek refuge with South African authorities at the border.
BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato confirmed that the violence began following Mozambique’s disputed election results on 24 October 2024, which saw the re-election of ruling party Frelimo, with candidate Daniel Chapo reportedly securing 71% of the vote.
Masiapato urged travellers to use alternative routes into Mozambique, warning that the border would remain closed until stability could be assured.
“We advise all stakeholders to suspend travel through Lebombo Port until further notice. Alternative routes to Mozambique must be used where feasible, at the moment, until the situation has stabilised,” Masiapato stated.
Post-election unrest and escalating violence
The protests stem from widespread discontent over the recent election results.
Demonstrators, many of whom support opposition groups, have accused Frelimo of unfair practices, and protests have spread throughout Maputo, with locals staging demonstrations almost daily.
Calls for a large-scale protest on Thursday, branded “the day of Mozambique’s freedom” by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, have added to the already volatile atmosphere.
Witnesses report that in Ressano Garcia, protesters stormed the border post, torching buildings, vehicles, and guardhouses.
Videos circulating on social media show fires and people running from the scene.
Reports suggest there is little to no police presence to contain the protests, with Mozambique’s Defence Minister Cristovao Chume considering deploying the military to quell the unrest.
“Violent demonstrations are sowing hatred between brothers, destroying infrastructure, and showing how divided we are,” Chume said in response to the unrest. “There is an intention to change the democratically established power.”
In response to the escalating violence, South African authorities have increased security along the border to prevent the unrest from spilling into the country.
The BMA has confirmed close cooperation with Mozambican officials and South African law enforcement to monitor developments and coordinate a safe reopening.
Seven Mozambican police officers were given refuge on the South African side after the situation intensified on Tuesday evening.
South African officials remain on the ground, and the BMA has pledged to provide timely updates as the situation develops.
While there are reports of casualties, South African authorities have yet to confirm specific figures.
