Mozambique opposition leader returns from exile as police fire tear gas at his supporters

MOZAMBIQUE’S main opposition leader, Venancio Mondlane returned from exile Thursday as security forces fired tear gas at hundreds of his supporters, who gathered near the main international airport to welcome him home.

He was seen walking off a plane at Mavalane International Airport in the capital, Maputo. He had left the country in October following a disputed election that has sparked months of violent protests and thrown the country into turmoil.

Emerging from the airport with a Bible in hand, Mondlane prayed and took an “oath,” mimicking a presidential swearing-in ceremony. He declared himself the legitimately elected president, rejecting the official results that favored Frelimo’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, who is set to be inaugurated on Wednesday, January 15.

Mondlane stated that he is ready for dialogue with the government. He says his return is to stop the killings of his supporters and lead protests.

Since October, hundreds of people have reportedly been killed, many shot by police, during protests sparked by allegations of electoral fraud.

Mondlane said he left Mozambique fearing for his life after two senior members of his opposition party were killed in their car by unknown gunmen in a late-night shooting in the aftermath of the election.

Police on Thursday blocked roads leading to the airport after Mondlane said on social media earlier this week he would return to the southern African country. Tear gas drifted over the airport and surrounding roads and a helicopter hovered overhead.

Thousands of Mondlane’s supporters were expected to gather in Maputo for his return, prompting the clampdown by security forces.

More than 100 people have been killed by security forces since Mozambique erupted in protests that Mondlane called for after the long-ruling Frelimo party was declared the winner of the Oct. 9 election.

Mondlane and other opposition candidates accused the ruling party of rigging the election and international observers reported irregularities in the vote and the alteration of some results.