Mozambique poll controversies may produce volatility

Significance

The vote was seen as a test for the ruling Frelimo party, whose popularity has suffered greatly amid mounting economic and political difficulties. However, the contest devolved into chaos after extensive vote rigging was not only alleged but documented in many places. This has thrown the country into a new crisis, the full implications of which will take months to evolve.

Impacts

• Likely further opposition protests could stir social problems and increase the risks of violence around the 2024 polls.
• Despite a settlement with Credit Suisse, the ‘hidden debts’ case in London continues to proceed, and still might drag Nyusi in.
• TotalEnergies is expected to announce whether and when it will restart its multi-billion-dollar LNG project by year-end.