Daniel Chapo, the presidential candidate of Mozambique’s ruling party, appears to be on the brink of victory, comfortably leading in nine of the country’s 11 provinces as vote counting continues from last week’s election. With over 50% of the vote in most regions, Chapo is poised to succeed current President Filipe Nyusi, who is stepping down after completing his second and final term.
In the capital, Maputo, Chapo has secured more than 53% of the vote, a significant lead over his nearest rival, independent candidate Venancio Mondlane, who garnered just under 34%. According to Lucilia Sitoe, chairperson of the Maputo Provincial Election Commission, Chapo has maintained his lead at every polling station counted. “Daniel Franscisco Chapo, 656,056, which corresponds to 68.02%. Venancio Antion Bila Mondlane, 260,792, which corresponds to 27.04%,” Sitoe announced, reflecting the overwhelming support for Chapo in key urban areas.
The opposition’s performance has been underwhelming, with Renamo’s candidate, Ossufo Momade, polling just 9.6% in Maputo, while Lutero Simango of the Mozambique Democratic Movement (MDM) lagged with 2.86%. This trend is replicated in several provinces, including traditionally opposition-held areas like Zambezia and Sofala, where Chapo leads with commanding majorities of 73% and 65%, respectively.
Despite Chapo’s apparent dominance, voter turnout in this election was notably low, with less than 50% of Mozambique’s 17 million registered voters participating. The low turnout reflects widespread voter apathy and dissatisfaction with the political landscape. In key northern provinces like Nampula and Zambezia, millions of voters stayed home, and tens of thousands cast blank ballots—a common form of protest in Mozambique. In Cabo Delgado, a province struggling with an Islamist insurgency, nearly a million voters did not participate, and a significant number of ballots were either spoiled or left blank.
While the final results are not expected for another two weeks, Mozambique’s National Election Commission has vowed that every vote will be counted. The chairman emphasized the transparency of the process, noting that representatives from all political parties are present at polling stations to oversee the counting.
As Chapo’s victory looms, attention is already shifting to the significant challenges awaiting the next president. Independent political analyst Dercio Alfazema outlined the public’s expectations, which include tackling corruption, improving security, and enhancing the quality of essential services like healthcare and education. “We are looking for more health service and the quality of education, the extension of the services such as infrastructure,” Alfazema said. He also highlighted pressing issues such as terrorism in the north, kidnappings, and the need for job creation for Mozambique’s young population.
Chapo’s government will face the enormous task of addressing these concerns, especially in regions like Cabo Delgado, which has been ravaged by insurgent violence. The incoming administration will also need to foster economic growth and rebuild trust with a disengaged electorate, as evidenced by the low voter turnout.
If current trends hold, Chapo will be sworn in as president in January 2025, marking a new chapter in Mozambique’s political landscape. The transition comes as President Nyusi steps down after serving two five-year terms, in accordance with the country’s constitution.
