MAPUTO — 4 October 2025:
The Ombudsman of Justice of Mozambique, Isaque Chande, has urged greater political tolerance as a foundation for consolidating peace, national unity, and the democratic rule of law. His remarks came during the national Peace Day commemorations held today at Heroes’ Square in Maputo, marking the anniversary of the General Peace Agreement signed on 4 October 1992.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremony, Chande emphasized that true peace cannot be achieved without a culture of listening and dialogue.
“To have peace, we must have political tolerance,” he stated. “For rapid national unity, it is imperative that we know how to listen to the other and respect their messages so that ours may also be heard.”
The Ombudsman underscored that while Mozambique has made significant progress since the end of the civil conflict, current challenges demand renewed commitment to inclusiveness, respect for fundamental freedoms, and dialogue across the political spectrum.
Participation in Religious Appeal for Peace
Earlier in the day, at the invitation of the Sant’Egídio Community, the Ombudsman attended a Mass for Peace at the Cathedral of Maputo. Under the motto “Bet on Peace”, religious and civic voices joined in a united call for a country free from war, division, and violence — where peace is transformed from a private aspiration into a national commitment.
During the service, Ombudsman Chande received a symbolic peace pledge from a member of the public and signed a peace appeal, reaffirming his dedication to strengthening peace and social cohesion through the institutional mandate of his office.
“Peace is not only the absence of conflict,” he said. “It is a continuous process of tolerance, understanding, and shared responsibility. We must all contribute to building a Mozambique that is united, just, and forward-looking.”
