Internet Restrictions in Mozambique: Civil Society Fights for Freedom and Access After Disputed Elections

As young people in Mozambique express dissent after a disputed election, civil society groups are opposing government repression. Authorities have targeted peaceful demonstrators with rubber bullets, live ammunition, and tear gas. Internet restrictions have also cut off communication channels for citizens.

The Centre for Public Integrity (CIP), the Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (CDD), and the Civil Society Learning and Training Centre (CESC) have filed an injunction against TMcel, Movitel, and Vodacom. They demand that these companies restore full internet access. The groups argue that these restrictions violate the rights of Mozambicans.

In a statement, the organizations highlighted that the internet blackout worsens insecurity and limits access to accurate information. They urge the court to restore internet access to uphold citizens’ rights and maintain Mozambique’s commitment to democracy.

Professor Adriano Nuvunga, director of CDD, noted that they have not received a response from the courts regarding the injunction. He explained that the government is gradually lifting internet restrictions, but full access has not yet been restored. Additionally, they have contacted Vodafone, the parent company of Vodacom, questioning their compliance with political directives.

The impact of internet shutdowns extends to financial consequences as many professionals have relocated to South Africa for internet access. Nuvunga mentioned that around 110 Mozambican workers from these companies have moved due to the shutdowns.

Human Rights Watch reported that since October 25, 2024, Mozambicans received messages about temporary restrictions on social media access. Nuvunga asserts that despite claims of full network operation, access remains limited.

How are civil society organizations in Mozambique responding to government actions against demonstrators?

Interview with Professor Adriano Nuvunga, Director⁢ of the Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (CDD)

NewsDirector3: Thank you for joining us today, Professor Nuvunga. Can you first provide some context on the recent protests in Mozambique following the disputed elections?

Professor Nuvunga: Thank you ⁣for having me. The recent protests are a‌ direct ‍response to the frustration among young Mozambicans regarding the electoral process, which many consider flawed. In an environment where⁤ democratic ‌freedoms are increasingly stifled, the youth​ have been mobilizing to express their dissent. Unfortunately, this has been met with a heavy-handed response ⁣from the government.

NewsDirector3: We understand that civil society organizations are currently opposing government repression. Could you elaborate on the measures that have been taken against peaceful demonstrators?

Professor Nuvunga: Yes, while peaceful assembly is a constitutional right, we have witnessed alarming actions from the authorities. Demonstrators ⁢have faced the‍ use of rubber bullets, live ammunition, and tear gas, highlighting a severe disregard for human rights. This excessive⁣ force ⁢is​ not just a crackdown on dissent but underscores the government’s failure to engage⁤ with ‍its citizens’ demands.

NewsDirector3: Internet access has been a significant issue during these⁢ protests.⁢ Can you tell us more about the injunction filed by civil society organizations against⁣ telecom companies?

Professor Nuvunga: The Centre for Public Integrity, CDD, and the Civil Society Learning and Training ​Centre​ have collectively filed an injunction against TMcel, Movitel, and Vodacom. This legal ​action aims to compel these companies to restore full ⁤internet access. The internet blackout is causing tremendous insecurity and has severely limited the flow ⁢of accurate information, critical for⁣ informed public discourse.

NewsDirector3: What specific⁢ rights do​ the ‌civil society organizations​ believe are being violated by these internet restrictions?

Professor Nuvunga: ‍ The restrictions infringe upon several fundamental rights: the right to freedom of expression, access to information, and⁣ the right to assembly. When the⁤ internet is down, citizens are ‍cut off from vital communication channels, effectively silencing ‍their voices and hindering their ability ⁣to organize and mobilize. We believe ⁤restoring internet access is crucial⁢ for maintaining Mozambique’s democratic commitments.

NewsDirector3: You’ve mentioned the gradual lifting of internet restrictions by ‌the government. What does this mean for the citizens of⁤ Mozambique moving forward?

Professor⁤ Nuvunga: While we have seen some steps taken to⁢ restore ⁣access, it’s not enough.​ Full restoration is necessary ⁣for citizens to ⁤exercise their rights effectively. Without complete access, the manipulation of ‍information ⁣can thrive, and public discourse can ​be‌ stifled even further. We hope the courts will‌ recognise the urgency of our injunction and act swiftly to restore these essential⁤ services.

NewsDirector3: Have you had any communication with the⁤ judiciary regarding the injunction?

Professor‍ Nuvunga: Unfortunately, we have yet to receive a response, which is concerning. The delay creates uncertainty, and we urge‌ the court to recognise the‌ implications of inaction. The situation is dire, and we need swift intervention ⁢to safeguard the rights of Mozambicans.

NewsDirector3: what message‌ would you like⁤ to convey to the ⁢international community regarding the situation in Mozambique?

Professor Nuvunga: I would urge the international community to closely monitor the developments in ⁣Mozambique. The ⁣rights‍ of our citizens are being systematically undermined, and external pressure⁣ can ⁢be a significant catalyst for change. Support for democratic movements ​and human rights initiatives is ‍vital to ensuring accountability and fostering a more inclusive political environment.

NewsDirector3: Thank you, Professor Nuvunga, for your insights and for shedding‍ light​ on the pressing issues facing⁢ Mozambique today.

Professor Nuvunga: ‍ Thank you for the opportunity ‌to share our concerns. It is‍ essential to keep these‍ issues in the global discourse.

There are currently no official penalties for internet disruptions. Experts argue that internet service providers must ensure consumer rights and question their compliance with government orders. Calls for clearer regulations regarding ISPs’ responsibilities are growing.

Mozambique’s constitution supports freedom of expression, and the country is a signatory to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, guaranteeing access to information. However, experts express concern over the government and ISPs’ actions that undermine these constitutional principles.

Cybersecurity expert Chris Musodza warned that a complete internet shutdown would have severe consequences for essential services such as hospitals and banking. He hopes the ongoing case will raise awareness and pressure ISPs to protect consumer rights.

In addition to internet issues, journalists face risks. Recently, two South African reporters were detained while covering protests. Their arrest has drawn criticism from the South African National Editors’ Forum.

Sanef emphasized the importance of press freedom and accountability. They called for action from regional leaders and international bodies to protect journalists and uphold freedom of expression in Mozambique.