On 9 October, elections were held in Mozambique to select the country's next president, members of parliament, provincial assemblies, and governors. Since the announcement of the election results, which gave an advantage to the party currently in power, the country has faced a period of political and social tension, with opposition parties contesting the election results. This also has an impact on the Blue Deal partnership and planned activities.
The electoral irregularities identified by opposition parties, international observers, and members of civil society resulted in a wave of protests that gave rise to heightened levels of polarisation, violence, and repression.
Impact on the Blue Deal partnership and planned activities
The country’s political, social, and economic situation rapidly deteriorated. Resulting in significant disruptions to transportation infrastructure, business operations, and the movement of people and goods. This scenario is adversely affecting the implementation of activities planned by the Blue Deal partnership in Mozambique. The current security situation, resulting from the protests and police action, is negatively impacting the ability of local partners to work, both in their offices and in the field. As a result, several activities planned by the partnership for the last quarter of this year have been cancelled or postponed until next year. Additionally, travel to the country by experts from Dutch Water Authorities has also been banned, limiting the exchange of experiences between the 2 countries for an unknown period.
Uncertainty
It is not possible to ascertain the direction the protests may take until the official results have been announced by the highest justice body in Mozambique (the Constitutional Council). Consequently, it is uncertain to which extent the Blue Deal programme can be implemented over the next time. In the meantime, we are continuing to coordinate activities which are still possible, while respecting all possible levels of security. It is our hope that the situation does not escalate.