Frelimo chokehold on Mozambique Democracy

By: Shania Simiao Munuane and Faith Vongaishe Ruwo
Africa University, Department of International Relations and Diplomacy

Frelimo party’s long-standing dominance in Mozambique has led to a political environment where democracy is often compromised by its chokehold on power. Ever since Mozambique gained independence in 1975, Frelimo has maintained control over key institutions, including the military, judiciary, and media, stifling opposition and limiting democratic freedoms. Despite formal democratic elections, the ruling party’s manipulation of electoral processes and suppression of dissenting voices has undermined the integrity of Mozambique’s democracy.
Frelimo was founded in 1962 as a nationalist movement that aimed to end Portuguese colonial rule. Under the leadership of figures such as Eduardo Mondlane and Samora Machel, Frelimo waged a successful guerrilla war against the colonial regime, culminating in Mozambique’s independence in 1975. Frelimo viewed itself as a democratic multi-party party, and the introduction of multi-party democracy in the early 1990s was seen as a significant step towards political liberalization.

However, Frelimo’s transition from a one-party state to a multi-party system had more to do with maintaining power than with adopting genuine democratic principles. The party has consistently won every presidential and parliamentary election since 1994, often amid allegations of electoral fraud, voter intimidation and manipulation of state resources.

Frelimo’s control over state institutions, including the electoral commission, the judiciary, and the media, has allowed it to tilt the playing field in its favour. Opposition parties, particularly Renamo and the newer Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM), have struggled to compete on an equal footing. Electoral campaigns are often marred by violence, with opposition candidates and supporters facing harassment, arrest, and even assassination. The lack of transparency and accountability in the electoral process has eroded public trust in democratic institutions.

In addition, elections in Mozambique are marked by allegations of irregularities and voter manipulation. Although many elections have taken place, FRELIMO’s victory has often been questioned due to the dominance it exerts over the electoral process. The party has been accused of using state resources to influence elections, as well as engaging in voter intimidation and manipulation. For example, in the 2009 and 2014 presidential elections the opposition claimed that widespread fraud and manipulation ensured FRELIMO’s continued hold on power. Similar accusations were made during the 2014 and 2024 elections which were considered the worst election period in Mozambique.

Opposition parties, such as RENAMO which has formerly been the most significant opposition force in the country, have faced serious challenges in trying to challenge FRELIMO’s control. RENAMO’s influence has been limited to certain regions and, despite having significant popular support, it has failed to make substantial progress in the face of government interference. Other opposition parties, such as the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM), also fought against FRELIMO’s entrenched dominance. Therefore, a new party called PODEMOS, created and made official in 2018, seen as a strong opposition, also faced serious challenges in the 2024 elections.

The media in Mozambique has also been a critical area where FRELIMO has maintained its power. Although the constitution guarantees freedom of expression, the media landscape has been dominated by pro-government outlets. Independent media outlets often face harassment, legal challenges and restrictions on their operations. Journalists critical of the government have faced threats, harassment and even arrest. As a result, FRELIMO has successfully maintained a narrative that reinforces its control and stifles dissenting opinions.

Frelimo’s authoritarian tendencies are further reflected in its treatment of dissent and civil society. Freedom of expression and assembly are constitutionally guaranteed, but in practice, these rights are often curtailed. Journalists, activists, and opposition figures who criticize the government or expose corruption face harassment, arrest, and violence. Independent media outlets are routinely targeted, with some being forced to shut down or operate under severe restrictions.

Civil society organizations, which play a crucial role in promoting democracy and human rights, are also under pressure. The government has introduced restrictive laws and regulations that limit the ability of NGOs to operate freely. Activists advocating for transparency, accountability, and social justice are often branded as enemies of the state, facing intimidation and persecution. Therefore, the judiciary, too, has struggled with independence. FRELIMO’s influence over the courts has meant that it often faces little resistance when it attempts to enforce laws and policies that benefit the party. The lack of an independent judiciary weakens checks and balances, leaving FRELIMO largely unaccountable for any missteps or abuses of power.

Frelimo’s chokehold on power has had profound implications for Mozambique’s socio-economic development. Despite the country’s vast natural resources, including coal, natural gas, and precious minerals, the benefits of economic growth have been unevenly distributed. The majority of Mozambicans continue to live in poverty, with limited access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and clean water.

The government’s focus on large-scale extractive projects, often involving foreign investors, has exacerbated inequality and fuelled social unrest. Local communities, particularly in resource-rich regions, have been marginalized and excluded from decision-making processes. The discovery of vast natural gas reserves in the Rovuma Basin has further complicated the situation. While the gas projects have the potential to transform Mozambique’s economy, they have also heightened competition for resources and power.

Frelimo’s control over the sector has allowed the party to consolidate its grip on power, while raising concerns about transparency and accountability in the management of natural resources.

External actors, including international donors and multinational corporations, have played a significant role in shaping Mozambique’s political and economic landscape. While foreign aid and investment have contributed to infrastructure development and economic growth, they have also reinforced Frelimo’s dominance, which has saddled the country with hidden debt. Donors often ignore governance issues, prioritizing stability and economic interests over democratic principles.

In conclusion Frelimo’s chokehold on Mozambique’s democracy is a reflection of the broader challenges facing many post-colonial African states. While the party’s role in ending colonial rule is commendable, its prolonged dominance has come at the expense of democratic principles and socio-economic development. The concentration of power, suppression of dissent, and endemic corruption have undermined public trust in democratic institutions and perpetuated inequality and poverty. The path to a more democratic and prosperous Mozambique will not be easy, but it is essential for the country’s future. By addressing the root causes of Frelimo dominance and promoting inclusive governance, Mozambique can overcome its challenges and realize its potential as a vibrant, democratic nation.