MEDIA NOTE
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U.S. Embassy Statement on 2023 Municipal Electoral Season
September 26, 2023 – Like in many other countries with multiparty systems of government, Mozambique’s constitution commits to the protection of all citizens’ rights and freedoms. It “enshrines a democratic rule of law, based on pluralism of expression, party organization, and the respect and guarantee of the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens”. Mozambique’s government and people have an opportunity to further strengthen their democracy through clean, transparent, inclusive elections that reflect the will of the people, as enshrined in Mozambique’s Constitution and electoral laws.
The U.S. Embassy joins the voices of different Mozambican institutions and organizations in calling for the electoral campaign, which began today, September 26, and the Municipal Elections on October 11, to take place in an environment of peace and political tolerance so that voters can access the polling stations to vote freely and without intimidation. Citizens, political parties, government institutions, the police, and law and order authorities have a responsibility to promote universal democratic principles with impartiality so that Mozambique’s multi-party democracy is strengthened. The press has the fundamental right to conduct their work freely and without interference.
The United States supports inclusive participation in the electoral process through a program with civil society to assess and promote access to elections for people with disabilities. We stand together with Mozambique for a healthier, more prosperous, more secure, more resilient, and more democratic future.
Media interested in receiving more information should contact the U.S. Embassy Press Office by e-mail: MaputoPress@state.gov.
