Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri to Represent Mnangagwa at Chapo’s Inauguration

Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri will represent President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the inauguration of Mozambique’s President-Elect, Daniel Chapo, in Maputo on Wednesday, January 15.

Muchinguri-Kashiri, who is stepping in for Mnangagwa during his annual leave, had previously attended the inauguration of Ghana’s President John Mahama in a similar role.

She departed for Mozambique on Tuesday and will join other Heads of State and Government at the ceremony.

Chapo, who will be Mozambique’s fifth president since its 1975 independence, will take over from Felipe Nyusi, who has completed two terms in office. Both Chapo and Nyusi are members of the ruling Frelimo party.

The inauguration will take place at Independence Square in Maputo, Mozambique’s capital.

Zimbabwe and Mozambique share a deep historical connection, particularly from their time in the liberation struggle, during which Mozambique provided crucial support to Zimbabwean freedom fighters.

Additionally, Zimbabwe relies on the Beira Corridor, which handles 70% of its imports and exports, and depends on Mozambique for energy security, including its primary fuel supply route.

However, Chapo’s inauguration takes place amid ongoing political tensions in Mozambique, which is still dealing with the aftermath of post-election violence and instability following the controversial results of the 9 October 2024 elections.

In other news, Constitutional law expert Lovemore Madhuku has stated that attempts by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s supporters to secure a third term for him are unlikely to succeed and will face significant challenges.

In a recent interview with Open Parly, Madhuku described the efforts to extend Mnangagwa’s presidency as a difficult and complex undertaking. He explained:

“I would say it’s almost impossible. Legally, it’s possible to follow the necessary steps, but when you examine those steps closely, you realize the task is nearly unachievable.”

Madhuku outlined the process involved in amending the Constitution to allow a third term, starting with the publication of the first bill to propose the change. He said:

“After that, the public will have 90 days to debate it. Then it goes to Parliament, where it needs a two-thirds majority in both the National Assembly and the Senate. Following that, a referendum would be required.”

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