South Africa has temporarily shut down its main border crossing with Mozambique, citing safety concerns as protests intensify over last month’s disputed election in Mozambique. The decision to close the Lebombo border post in Mpumalanga was confirmed by South Africa’s border authority on Wednesday, following reports of escalating violence, including vehicles being torched on the Mozambican side.
At least 18 people have been killed in the protests, according to human rights organizations, as opposition supporters rally against what they claim was a fraudulent election win by Frelimo, Mozambique’s ruling party since 1975. Mozambican security forces have responded with tear gas and live ammunition, while the government has restricted internet access and threatened to deploy the military.
South Africa’s border authority stated in an email to Reuters that the port of entry had been closed “in the interest of public safety” and would remain so until further notice. Seven Mozambican officials have reportedly sought refuge in South Africa for their safety.
A South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) reporter shared a video on social media showing a long line of trucks, stretching for kilometers, waiting to cross the closed border.
The protests were sparked by opposition leader and presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane, who placed second in the official results of the October 9 election but claims to have won. Mondlane called for a week of demonstrations, set to culminate in a large march on Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, on Thursday.
Mozambique’s Defence Minister, Cristovao Chume, warned on Tuesday that the military was prepared to intervene if necessary, cautioning against any attempts to seize power by force. Meanwhile, the Mozambican Centre for Democracy and Human Rights reported that 24 people had died as a result of police violence. Human Rights Watch researcher Zenaida Machado confirmed 18 verified deaths but suggested the toll could be higher.
The country’s Interior Minister defended the police response, stating that the protests had turned violent and that security forces had to act to restore public order, leading to fatalities.
The electoral commission has not commented on the allegations of fraud, and Frelimo has yet to respond to requests for comment.
