Daniel Chapo Sworn In As Mozambican President
In a low-key ceremony, Mozambique’s new President Daniel Chapo has been sworn in – in his first presidential address, the 47-year-old pledged to “devote all my energies” to promoting unity and human rights in a nation scarred by post-election violence.
A local civil society group says that more than 300 people have been killed in clashes with security forces since elections in October.
Eight people were killed by police on Wednesday as they protested against the inauguration. Most of the victims were supporters of defeated presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane, who had called for a national strike in defiance of Chapo taking office.
In light of Mondlane’s appeal, most businesses in Maputo were shut on Wednesday and the streets were largely deserted.
Chapo had won the election with 65% of the vote, extending the 49-year-rule of the Frelimo party.
