The latest report by MISA Mozambique indicates that, despite a reduction in the number of violations against press freedom in 2025, the environment for journalism in the country remains concerning and marked by high risks.
According to the document, Mozambique retains characteristics of an authoritarian state, with a progressive shrinking of civic space over the past decade. The report notes that the ruling party, Frelimo, has adopted an increasingly repressive stance, in a context of growing unpopularity linked to corruption scandals, alleged electoral fraud, and an inability to meet public expectations, particularly among the youth.
The situation worsened during the post-election period of 2024, marked by protests that resulted in more than 400 deaths, largely attributed to police action. Although 2025 saw a relative return to political and social normality, the report stresses that this did not translate into structural improvements in respect for press freedom.
Fewer cases, same patterns
In 2025, 15 violations against press freedom were recorded, a significant decrease compared to 32 cases in 2024 and 28 in 2023. Nevertheless, MISA warns that the decline does not necessarily indicate a safer environment for journalists.
Most incidents involved physical assaults, reflecting a recurring pattern in the country. The report highlights that the state itself remains the main violator, with public officials and members of the Defence and Security Forces implicated in nearly half of the cases.
Northern region remains dangerous for journalists
The situation is particularly critical in the northern part of the country, where the armed conflict in Cabo Delgado continues to directly affect media work. The insurgent group affiliated with the Islamic State has expanded attacks into neighboring provinces such as Niassa and Nampula, worsening insecurity.
In this context, the disappearance of journalist Arlindo Chissale in January 2025 is cited as one of the most serious cases. Chissale, known for his coverage of the Cabo Delgado conflict, was allegedly abducted by individuals suspected of being security agents. More than a year later, his whereabouts remain unknown.
The report links this case to a broader pattern of repression against journalists covering the northern conflict, also recalling the disappearance of reporter Ibraimo Mbaruco several years ago under similar circumstances.
Additionally, 16 journalists were intimidated and had their equipment confiscated by security forces while covering events in Cabo Delgado, highlighting the hostile environment in the region.
Political control and self-censorship
The report also notes that, despite the existence of a legal framework protecting press freedom—including the Constitution and the Press Law—in practice, an authoritarian culture prevails, limiting access to information and encouraging both censorship and self-censorship.
Public media outlets remain under strong political control, while private media face economic pressures that affect their editorial independence. Access to information also remains a challenge due to institutional resistance to data disclosure.
New political cycle under scrutiny
The year 2025 marked the beginning of President Daniel Chapo’s administration, succeeding Filipe Nyusi. The report examines the impact of this transition on the media sector, based on interviews with senior journalists.
According to MISA, the new government’s stance toward the press will be decisive in determining whether the country moves toward a more open environment or continues to experience repressive practices.
Unstable international ranking
In the Reporters Without Borders rankings, Mozambique has shown fluctuations: it dropped from position 102 in 2023 to 105 in 2024, before slightly improving to 101 in 2025. However, the report indicates that this improvement does not necessarily reflect internal progress, but rather global comparisons.
MISA concludes that, despite signs of stabilization after the electoral crisis, Mozambique remains a risky environment for journalists, requiring deep reforms and genuine political commitment to press freedom. (Mozanorte)
.jpg)
0 Comments