Amnesty International has raised concern over the killing of Pedro João Chaúque, a member of Mozambique’s opposition party National Alliance for a Free and Autonomous Mozambique (Anamola).
Chaúque was reportedly shot dead by unknown armed men at his home in Gaza Province in south-western Mozambique on May 16.
Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah, said the killing forms part of a disturbing pattern of attacks targeting opposition members and critics in the country.
“Mozambican authorities must ensure prompt, independent and transparent investigations into the killing of Pedro João Chaúque and other opposition figures. All suspected perpetrators must be brought to justice,” Chagutah said.
The rights group also called on authorities to protect freedom of expression and ensure that critics and opposition voices are not subjected to intimidation, violence or reprisals.
The killing comes just weeks after another Anamola member, Anselmo Vicente, was shot dead in Manica Province.
Meanwhile, journalist Arlindo Chissale, a supporter of opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, has been missing since January after witnesses alleged he was taken away by suspected security forces.
–ChannelAfrica–
