Mozambican President Daniel Chapo has warned against individuals he described as “manipulators” who use social media, rumours and false information to encourage people to destroy public property following the disputed 2024 general elections.

Speaking at a public gathering in Zavala district in Inhambane province, Chapo accused some people who lost the election of deliberately misleading citizens and encouraging them to attack important public facilities such as hospitals and schools. He urged citizens to be cautious about false information shared online and rejected the idea that political disagreements should be settled through violence.

Chapo questioned why anyone would destroy public property when such facilities are built for the benefit of the citizens themselves. He stressed that political differences should be addressed through dialogue rather than violence, calling for greater unity and peaceful coexistence among Mozambicans.

His comments come as Mozambique continues to deal with the effects of political and social unrest that followed the October 2024 elections. Former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane rejected Chapo’s victory and led calls for demonstrations and other forms of protest. He is currently facing several charges connected to the post-election unrest, including allegations relating to incitement and terrorism.

According to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, much of the evidence against Mondlane involves his social-media broadcasts, through which he allegedly called for protests, strikes, shutdowns and opposition to the election results. The Podemos party, which supported Mondlane during the 2024 presidential election, has also indicated that one of its leaders will appear as a witness during his trial.

The unrest between October 2024 and March 2025 resulted in widespread demonstrations, shutdowns, violence, looting and damage to both public and private property. Non-governmental organisations estimate that more than 400 people were killed during clashes linked to the protests.

President Chapo further argued that maintaining peace and security is essential for Mozambique’s development. He identified education, healthcare, water supply, energy and roads as key areas requiring continued government investment.

In concluding his message to the people of Zavala, Chapo emphasised that Mozambique’s way forward depends on “unity, vigilance and work,” a slogan he repeated throughout his address.