Maputo, May 1, 2025 (Lusa) - The president of Mozambique, Daniel Chapo, recognised on Thursday the "invaluable contribution" of workers to building a more "prosperous, just and supportive" country and called for serenity and commitment in the workplace.
His acknowledgement is contained in a message of greetings from the Office of the President, on the occasion of International Workers' Day, which is today.
For the president, the date symbolises "the struggle, resistance and achievements of those who build the foundations every day" for a country that is "more prosperous, fair and united".
Daniel Chapo acknowledged the negative impact of the recent post-election demonstrations on companies and the country's working class.
"[The demonstrations] left a deep mark on the business fabric, resulting in the closure of production units, the dismissal of workers, the weakening of labour dialogue and the postponement of wage negotiations," he said.
Mozambique's government previously confirmed at least 80 deaths, as well as the destruction of 1,677 commercial establishments, 177 schools and 23 health centres during the demonstrations.
Faced with this crisis, he also urged "serenity" and a commitment to "dignified and productive" labour and the protection of companies as "engines of production and opportunity".
"Mozambique has already overcome many challenges and, with collective effort, shared responsibility and a vision of the future, we will overcome this moment and emerge even stronger," Chapo added.
Mozambique has experienced the worst protest the country has seen since the first multi-party elections (1994), led by former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane who rejects the election results of 9 October, which gave victory to Daniel Chapo.
Almost 400 people lost their lives as a result of clashes between the police and protesters, according to data from civil society organisations, which also degenerated into looting and the destruction of businesses and public infrastructure.
However, on 23 March, Mondlane and Daniel Chapo, who had already been sworn in as president, met for the first time, and a commitment was made to put an end to the post-election violence in the country. Today, mutual criticism and accusations continue in the public statements of both politicians.
LYCE/ADB // ADB.
Lusa
