MAPUTO, Oct 4 (Bernama) - Several Mozambican civil society organisations have warned of the possibility of more violence once results of the Oct 15 general elections are announced, Mozambique's AIM news agency reports.
The Youth Parliament, Human Rights League (LDH), Centre for Public Integrity (CIP) and the Forum of Community Radios (FORCOM) called for zero tolerance against electoral violence at a joint press conference held in Maputo recently.
The organisations urged political parties to respect the law and refrain from actions violating the constitution and electoral legislation.
"The police and courts should act with impartiality and objectivity and ensure that those responsible for acts of violence are prosecuted," they said.
In September, clashes occured in southern province of Gaza after supporters of ruling Frelimo Party attacked the motorcade of Daviz Simango, leader and presidential candidate of opposition Mozambique Democratic Movement (MDM).
The MDM retaliated by bringing a mock coffin decorated with images of Frelimo presidential candidate, Filipe Nyusi, to the Heroes' Square in northern city of Nampula on Sept 25.
Police used tear gas to disperse the MDM demonstrators.
LDH chairperson Alice Mabota warned more serious incidents could take place after the release of election results if contending parties refused to acknowledge the outcome.
The civil society bodies accused the police of being biased against opposition parties and turning a blind eye to violent acts provoked by Frelimo.
They said since election campaign began on Aug 31, police had detained many supporters of MDM and former rebel movement Renamo.
"We call for a radical change in the behaviour of the political parties, the electoral bodies and the police to avoid further spread of violence," they said.
-- BERNAMA