PRESS STATEMENT

The Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU), at its 458th meeting held on 17 September 2014, had an exchange of views on recent political developments in Mozambique, on the basis of the briefing made by the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Mozambique to the AU.

Council welcomed the signing of the Agreement on Cessation of Hostilities between the Government of Mozambique and the Party of the Mozambique National Resistance (RENAMO), on 5 September 2014. Council commended the Mozambican stakeholders for the spirit of responsibility and compromise they demonstrated, which led to the conclusion of this Agreement.

Council underlined that this Agreement constitutes an important step towards the holding of the general elections scheduled for 15 October 2014, in the required conditions of peace and security. Council looks forward to the successful holding of these elections.

Council encouraged the signatory parties to spare no efforts to implement their commitments faithfully. In this regard, Council welcomed the commitment made by both parties to continue the dialogue, in order to find appropriate solutions to the outstanding issues.

Council stressed the need for all the Mozambican actors to work towards strengthening national unity and to persevere in their efforts to complete the process of national reconciliation in the country. Council welcomed the passing, by the Parliament of Mozambique, on 12 August 2014, of an Amnesty Law with respect to the crimes committed during the period of hostilities.

Council expressed AU’s appreciation to President Armando Emilio Guebuza and to the Government of Mozambique for the commitment and determination with which they are working towards the consolidation of the remarkable progress recorded by Mozambique in recent years in the areas of peace and development.