Mozambique opposition leader Dhlakama extends truce indefinitely

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By CGTN's Jerry Owilli

Mozambican opposition leader Afonso Dhlakama has indefinitely extended a truce between his RENAMO group and the government.

The leader had previously made the ceasefire announcement in December.

Its renewal was expected, after an agreement was reached last week between Dhlakama and President Filipe Nyusi.

Government forces will vacate their bases in Gorongosa, in Sofala province, one of which will be converted into a joint government-Renamo ceasefire monitoring center.

Dlakama, who spoke to media via phone from his stronghold in the interior of the country, said the decision to extend the ceasefire indefinitely, was based on discussions he had had with local and foreign investors.

They argued that the continual extensions caused more anxiety and meant capital would wait on the sidelines until stability returned.

Mozambique is struggling with low economic growth and burgeoning debt. Pressure has been heaped on the country’s leaders to find a solution as they await the results of an audit being carried out by New York-based risk analysis firm Kroll into national debt.

Citizens will remain on tenterhooks hoping the ceasefire will be honored by both sides, especially as the country prepares for municipal elections in 2018 and general elections in 2019.

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