DODOMA: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan, Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, has called on all parties involved in the ongoing conflict in Mozambique to exercise maximum restraint and avoid any actions that could further escalate violence and instability in the region.
In her statement issued on Tuesday, President Samia reaffirmed SADC’s unwavering commitment to supporting Mozambique in resolving the crisis through peaceful and diplomatic means.
She emphasised that SADC stands ready to assist, through established mechanisms, to facilitate dialogue and promote a sustainable resolution to the ongoing challenges.
“We therefore appeal for an immediate cessation of all hostilities, while reiterating the importance of prioritising the well-being and livelihoods of the Mozambican people,” President Samia stated.
She underscored the critical need for all parties to embrace peaceful and constructive dialogue as the most effective pathway for addressing grievances and fostering national reconciliation.
President Samia stressed that the restoration of peace in Mozambique is not only essential for the country’s stability but also for the broader Southern African region, which is interlinked through economic and social ties.
“Our collective aspiration remains the restoration of harmony and stability in Mozambique, in line with our shared vision of good governance, social cohesion and sustainable development in the region,” she added.
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The call comes in the wake of political unrest following Mozambique’s recent elections, held on October 9th, 2024.
According to the SADC Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM), the elections were conducted in a generally peaceful and calm atmosphere, with citizens demonstrating patience and determination in exercising their democratic rights.
SEOM’s preliminary statement, delivered on October 11th 2024 in Maputo, commended the orderly conduct of the electoral process and the commitment shown by stakeholders to uphold democratic principles.
However, the period following the election results announcement on December 23rd, 2024 has been marred by widespread protests and outbreaks of violence, leading to significant casualties and damage.
The tensions have escalated, with multiple incidents of civil unrest reported across various regions of Mozambique.
President Samia expressed deep concern over the continued loss of lives, injuries sustained by innocent civilians and the widespread destruction of private property and critical public infrastructure.
“We are deeply concerned by the continued loss of lives, injuries, destruction of private property and public infrastructure. The current situation has also caused significant economic challenges on the nation, disrupted cross-border trade and hindered the free movement of people,” she remarked.
The socio-economic impact of the conflict has been profound, with trade routes being disrupted and businesses forced to suspend operations in affected areas.
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Cross-border trade, which plays a vital role in the economies of Mozambique and neighbouring countries, has suffered significant setbacks, adding to the hardships faced by communities dependent on trade for their livelihoods.
SADC, under President Samia’s leadership, continues to emphasise the need for dialogue, mediation and negotiation as the most viable approaches to resolving the current crisis.
The regional bloc has pledged its support for initiatives aimed at restoring calm, including facilitating discussions between conflicting parties and offering technical and diplomatic assistance.
She has also highlighted the importance of regional solidarity in addressing the Mozambique crisis. She called upon neighbouring countries and the international community to rally behind efforts aimed at finding a peaceful resolution and supporting the people of Mozambique during this challenging period.
She also reiterated that the path to sustainable peace requires collective action, political will and a shared commitment to placing the interests of the Mozambican people above all else.
“The people of Mozambique deserve peace, stability and prosperity. It is our duty, as regional partners and stakeholders, to ensure that they are given the opportunity to rebuild their lives and restore their confidence in a peaceful and democratic future,” she stated.
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As tensions persist, SADC remains vigilant and prepared to step in with the necessary support to de-escalate the situation and create an environment conducive to long-term peace and stability. The regional body continues to monitor the developments in Mozambique closely, with the hope that ongoing efforts will lead to a swift and peaceful resolution to the crisis.
President Samia’s leadership in addressing this sensitive issue underscores her dedication to fostering regional peace and stability while advocating for the well-being and security of the people of Mozambique.
