Portugal's Diplomatic Shift: Minister Rangel to Represent at Mozambique's Presidential Inauguration

Portugal breaks tradition by sending a minister, Paulo Rangel, instead of the President to the inauguration of Mozambique's new President, Daniel Chapo, from the Frelimo party. This decision follows contested election results and violence against protests claiming electoral fraud. In a joint decision between Belém and São Bento, sending Rangel signals Portugal's acknowledgment of the political tensions in Mozambique. Other nations, including Angola, will also send diplomatic representatives rather than heads of state, reflecting a cautious approach towards the new government. The European Union's electoral observation mission raised concerns about the transparency of the election process, which saw Chapo win with 70.67% of the votes. Rangel's attendance indicates a willingness to engage with the new administration, as Prime Minister Luís Montenegro has already initiated communication with Chapo. This decision marks a significant departure from the past, where the President attended all CPLP inaugurations except for Equatorial Guinea's, which was seen as a political statement. Rangel's presence aims to maintain diplomatic relations despite underlying issues in Mozambique, a country with historical ties to Portugal.