Mozambique’s president asks mayors to ensure transparency and fight corruption

The President of Mozambique and the ruling Frelimo party this Thursday called on newly elected mayors to act transparently and against corruption, arguing that municipalities must act to improve the living conditions of their people.

“Local governance must be holistic, modern, inclusive, competent and free from corruption,” said Filipe Nyusi, speaking at a meeting with leaders of the 60 municipalities where the Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo) won local elections on October 11 last.

Mayors and members of municipal assemblies must be guided by a culture of accountability to citizens, striving to build relationships of trust and public participation in municipal government, he continued.

“Maintain regular contact with communities and their leaders, listening to their precautions and involving them in finding solutions,” the head of state emphasized.

Filipe Nyusi criticized “nepotism” in the selection of councilors and municipal directors, saying the practice undermined “integrity and competence.”

He also called for simplification of administrative procedures in municipal government and meeting the needs of communities, stressing that municipalities are part of a decentralization process designed to bring power closer to citizens.

“It is important that local government leaders understand and apply administrative processes, reducing excessive bureaucracy,” he stressed.

Frelimo won in 60 of the country’s 65 municipalities, with the Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo), the main opposition party, winning in four and the Mozambican Democratic Movement (MDM), the third-largest political force, again winning in the Border municipality.

The vote was marred by a number of irregularities and sparked opposition street protests, with episodes of clashes between protesters and police, observer groups said.