U.S. Embassy Statement on the Assassination of Anastácio Matavele

U.S. Embassy

Avenida Kenneth Kaunda, 193

Caixa Postal, 783

Maputo

MOZAMBIQUE

PRESS RELEASE

October 8, 2019 – Maputo – The United States Embassy in Mozambique joins other members of the international community in strongly condemning the October 7 assassination in Xai Xai of Anastácio Matavele, the Executive Director of FONGA – GAZA NGO Forum.  We express our deepest condolences to Mr. Matavele’s family, friends, and colleagues.  We urge the appropriate authorities to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation to bring to justice those responsible for this heinous crime.

The fairness and credibility of the election results depend on the ability of all Mozambican voters, candidates, and observers to participate in all phases of an electoral process that is safe, unrestricted, and free from hostilities.  We urge that every effort be made to avoid tensions and to facilitate full electoral participation in order to promote the vibrant democracy that is an essential foundation for Mozambique’s peace and prosperity.

For more information about this press release, please contact the U.S. Embassy Maputo Press Office at MaputoPress@state.gov.

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