Mozambique Opposition Leader Swears Himself in as President Upon Return from Exile

MAPUTO – Valencio Mondlane, Mozambique’s opposition leader, declared himself the country’s president moments after touching down at Mavalane International Airport in Maputo on Thursday.

Mondlane, who had been in exile following the disputed October 2024 elections, arrived to a crowd of enthusiastic supporters and journalists who had been waiting for hours. Amid chants of solidarity, he boldly proclaimed, “Na quali dad the president-elect,” signaling his rejection of the election results that favored the ruling FRELIMO party.

The dramatic self-swearing-in ceremony has further intensified Mozambique’s political tensions. Security forces fired tear gas to disperse the gathering crowd, but Mondlane’s defiant statement is likely to galvanize his supporters and reignite protests against what he calls a fraudulent election process.

Mondlane’s return marks a critical moment in Mozambique’s political landscape as opposition forces push for accountability and reform.