“The U.S. Department of State alerts U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Mozambique that general elections will take place on Wednesday, October 15, 2014. Official campaigning began on August 31. As with all elections, the U.S. Embassy in Maputo urges U.S. citizens to exercise caution during the election period, review recent Security Messages on the Embassy’s website, and carefully consider whether travel is necessary during this period, namely in the week prior to the elections and the days following. This Travel Alert will expire on October 31.
Although widespread violence is not anticipated, electoral periods typically result in localized demonstrations that can turn violent, the possible use of force by security services to handle demonstrations or incidents of public disorder, and disruption of transportation services. Depending on election results, unrest and the potential for violence may increase immediately following the election.
We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. U.S. citizens in Mozambique are strongly urged to avoid voter polling places, demonstrations, political rallies, or large crowds of any kind during the election period.
The U.S. Embassy is closely monitoring election activity throughout Mozambique, and will provide updates as the situation warrants on the Embassy website and via Facebook and Twitter. U.S. citizens should regularly monitor these sites and local media outlets for updates. U.S. citizens should also be aware of their surroundings and exercise good judgment in the coming weeks. General information on preparing for emergencies is available on U.S. Embassy Maputo’s website.
As a general reminder, U.S. citizens are further advised to review personal security plans; remain aware of surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security and follow instructions from local authorities.
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Source:Mozambique Travel Alert
