Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called on the Mozambican government to cease its ongoing internet restrictions and restore full access to social media platforms. This appeal comes amidst the protests following the recent national elections. HRW argues that these internet shutdowns infringe on several fundamental human rights, including access to information, freedom of speech, and the right to peaceful protest. Allan Ngari, the Africa advocacy director at HRW, emphasized the critical nature of these rights, stating that the internet shutdown hinders people’s ability to access essential information, assemble peacefully, and voice their political opinions during this crisis. For more details on HRW’s stance, visit the Human Rights Watch announcement.
The government action to restrict internet access began on October 25, 2024, after the electoral commission announced the contentious victory of Daniel Chapo and the ruling Frelimo party. The ensuing protests, marked by conflicts between protestors and security forces, led to the shutdown of various social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Despite Deputy Minister of Transport and Communications Amilton Alissone’s comments that “conditions must be met for the situation to return to normal,” specific details on these conditions remain undisclosed, as reported by Club of Mozambique.
During the post-election unrest, 11 individuals lost their lives, and more than 400 were detained by security forces. The repression has intensified with opposition leader Venancio Mondlane rallying for nationwide demonstrations against alleged election fraud and the recent murders of two opposition figures. The European Union Election Observation Mission noted a pro-government bias in their report, raising concerns about electoral integrity and independence. The ongoing internet restrictions have notably impaired activists and protestors’ ability to communicate and express themselves freely. For the European Union’s electoral assessment, refer to their detailed report.
International standards, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, prohibit governments from limiting internet access, particularly concerning peaceful assemblies. The United Nations and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe declarations similarly uphold that internet restrictions are inconsistent with international human rights law. There is a consensus among these bodies that such actions contravene individuals’ rights to freedom of expression. For further insights, the United Nations’ position can be reviewed in the general comment on freedom of expression and the OSCE declarations.
As Mozambique’s political tension continues, the scrutiny over internet restrictions and their impact on human rights remains critical. The ongoing protests serve as a reminder of the challenges faced when governments and freedom of expression clash.
For ongoing updates, the full article published by JURIST can be accessed here.