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Mozambique’s War-Torn North Sees Rise in Islamic Insurgency, Whistleblower Protections Under Threat

Maputo - Amidst the chaos and destruction left by an ongoing armed conflict in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province, a worrying trend has emerged: the government’s silence on the crisis is stifling freedom of information and whistleblower protections. The situation has raised concerns about the state’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

The Conflict and its Impact

The conflict, led by Islamic insurgents, has ravaged the province since 2017, forcing thousands to flee their homes and leaving many dead or injured. However, official news sources have consistently muted reports on the conflict, fueling speculation that the government is trying to hide the truth from the public.

Freedom of Information in Mozambique

Mozambique’s ranking of 104 out of 180 countries in the 2020 World Press Freedom Index only exacerbates concerns about the state’s attitude towards freedom of the press and access to information. The country has a Right to Freedom of Information Act, promulgated in 2014, which guarantees citizens’ right to access information and whistleblowers’ right to disseminate critical information.

Challenges to Transparency

Despite these guarantees, limitations on disclosing state secrets and private citizen affairs have raised questions about how corruption and fraud can be brought to light. The lack of transparency has created an environment where corrupt practices can thrive, further destabilizing the country’s economy.

Institutional Weaknesses

  • Inadequate funding for the judiciary
  • Political interference in judicial appointments
  • A culture of bribery among judges
  • Financial constraints limiting whistleblower protections

Recommendations

To address these issues, experts recommend that the Mozambican state:

  • Prioritize upskilling the judiciary’s knowledge
  • Apply stricter criteria in appointing judges
  • Ensure adequate funding for agencies tasked with safeguarding whistleblower protections
  • Launch public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of corruption and its impact on the economy

Government Efforts

Mozambique has made significant strides in enacting legislation aimed at combating corruption, including signing international conventions like UNCAC and the SADC Protocol Against Corruption. However, enforcement remains a major challenge due to political interference and elite corruption networks.

Civil Society Response

Organizations like Centro de Integridade Publica (CIP) are working to promote transparency and good governance through research and advocacy activities. CIP, established in 2005, has been instrumental in promoting whistleblower protections and fighting corruption in Mozambique.

Contact Information

  • Center for Public Integrity
    • Address: 354 Frente da Liberdade Street, Maputo, Mozambique
    • Tel: +258 21 327 661
    • Email: marcelomosse@cip.org.mz
    • Executive Director: Marcelo Mosse
    • Program Director: Adriano Alfredo Nuvunga

Sources

  • Mozambican government reports
  • International Press Freedom Index
  • Centro de Integridade Publica (CIP) publications and statements
  • Interviews with experts and whistleblowers