Daniel Chapo of Mozambique's Frelimo party has officially begun his presidency, despite widespread protests and allegations of election fraud. The inauguration ceremony, held on Wednesday, was sparsely attended, reflecting the ongoing political tension in the country. A local monitoring group reports over 300 casualties in clashes with security forces since the October election, a vote contested by the opposition and deemed unfair by international observers.

Frelimo, which has governed Mozambique since the end of Portuguese colonial rule in 1975, denies any wrongdoing. The party maintained its power through a devastating 15-year civil war that concluded in 1992.

Addressing a small crowd of supporters in Maputo, Chapo emphasized social and political stability as his administration's primary focus. He also pledged to streamline the government, address youth unemployment, and prioritize health and education.

A significant security presence was observed in the largely deserted city center. Notably, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was among the few heads of state present at the inauguration.

Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who officially placed second in the presidential race, recently returned from self-imposed exile and has encouraged continued demonstrations. These protests, the largest against Frelimo in Mozambican history, have impacted international businesses, disrupted trade, and prompted some residents to seek refuge in neighboring countries.