Protests Erupt in Mozambique After Election

The funeral of 16-year-old Antonio Juaqim, who was shot during protests against last month's presidential election in Mozambique, highlights the escalating violence in the country. Human Rights Watch reported at least 40 deaths, including 10 children, during the police crackdown on the demonstrations, which were sparked by the re-election of Frelimo's candidate Daniel Chapo with 71% of the vote. Opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who received 20% of the vote, has accused the electoral commission of fraud and has called for nightly protests. While police Commander Bernadino Raphael expressed sympathy for victims, he blamed the opposition for instigating violence, citing the deaths of six officers. Critics, including human rights advocates, accuse the police of excessive force, leading to a deepening frustration among Mozambique's youth. The ongoing unrest reflects a broader discontent with Frelimo's long-standing rule as protesters continue to bang pots and pans nightly in defiance.