Police in Mozambique have fired tear gas in the capital Maputo to disperse people protesting against the government over alleged fraud in last month’s elections.

The demonstration on Thursday was the biggest yet against the governing Frelimo party, which was declared the winner of the October 9 election, extending its 49-year rule.

Large crowds of mostly young men barricaded streets with burning tyres and waved homemade signs in support of opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who says the vote was rigged and had called for a week of protests culminating on Thursday.

As the protesters marched towards the city centre, police tried to stop them by using tear gas.

Protesters react during a demonstration against the election outcome, in Luis Cabral township in Maputo, Mozambique on November 7, 2024 [Siphiwe Sibeko/Reuters]In an interview with AFP news agency, Mondlane, who claims to be the actual winner of the election, said it was a “crucial moment” for the country.

“I feel that there is a revolutionary atmosphere … that shows that we are on the verge of a unique historical and political transition in the country,” said Mondlane, speaking from an undisclosed location.

The 50-year-old former radio presenter said he could not disclose his whereabouts other than to say he was not in Africa. He left Mozambique last month following the unrest. He initially said he would be at Thursday’s march, but on Wednesday told AFP he wouldn’t return after all due to safety concerns.

Source: Al jazeera