Mozambique votes for president as the longtime ruling party faces a surprise new challenger

Associated Press

MAPUTO, Mozambique (AP) — Mozambique is voting for a new president. Wednesday’s election could extend the ruling party’s 49 years in power since the southern African nation gained independence from Portugal in 1975. Daniel Chapo is the candidate for the ruling Front for the Liberation of Mozambique party. Analysts say the strongest challenge to Frelimo’s dominance will likely come from 50-year-old independent candidate Venacio Mondlane. People also will vote for the makeup of parliament in a country of around 33 million people that faces a jihadi insurgency and climate challenges. Some candidates are already alleging manipulation of the election process.