Moroccan merchants in Mozambique have reported significant losses following post-election unrest that erupted after the ruling FRELIMO party’s victory. Protests by opposition supporters escalated into riots, resulting in attacks on businesses, including those owned by Moroccans.
According to testimonies gathered by Hespress, demonstrators broke into shops and cafes, looting their contents and causing extensive damage. Some Moroccan business owners reportedly lost everything as a result.
At least 12 Moroccan-owned businesses were affected, with some suffering severe destruction. One merchant, Ali Dhiyaz, shared a video on YouTube documenting the damage and chaos in the wake of the protests.
Mozambique descended into turmoil after the announcement of FRELIMO’s reelection. The party, which has governed since the country’s independence from Portugal, faced opposition-led protests that devolved into riots. The unrest also led to a prison break in Maputo, with dangerous inmates escaping custody.
Hassan, a Moroccan trader based in Maputo, described the escalating violence: “The situation worsened after the final results were announced, turning protests into looting and vandalism.” Hassan’s shop was among those targeted, along with approximately 12 other Moroccan-owned businesses.
“Some merchants lost everything due to the extensive damage inflicted on their shops,” he said.
In response, Moroccan traders collaborated with members of the Pakistani community to safeguard their remaining assets, including homes. They also reported the looting to local police. Hassan noted that the damage was not limited to Moroccan-owned properties, as many businesses in central Maputo were affected.
Moroccan expatriates in Mozambique predominantly manage cafes, restaurants, and small shops in the capital.
Ali Dhiyaz, the Moroccan merchant who raised awareness through his YouTube channel, stated that the situation has begun to stabilize for Moroccans. However, he expressed concern over the escape of dangerous prisoners during the unrest.
“These events, which started five days ago, are expected to subside by Saturday, with the opposition’s next steps likely becoming clearer by Monday,” Dhiyaz said. He also shared videos showing the destruction inflicted on Moroccan shops and cafes.
While calm is gradually returning, the riots have left many Moroccan merchants grappling with the aftermath of the damage and uncertainty over future unrest.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.