We are deeply concerned about the safety of around 8,000 Bangladeshis who have been caught in the middle of an ongoing conflict in Mozambique. Violent protests have erupted in the southeastern African nation since its top court upheld a disputed election result on December 23. According to a report by this daily, some Mozambicans, exploiting the volatile law and order situation, are attacking and looting the homes and businesses of Bangladeshis and other foreign nationals.

Mozambique has been experiencing some form of political tensions since its 16-year-long civil war ended in 1992. The latest spate of violence began after the ruling Frelimo party won the October election that the opposition rejected on charges of vote rigging. According to Bangladeshis living there, they could not anticipate that the situation would get so dire. Failing to move to safer locations pre-emptively, they have now become the targets of violence. Many had to leave their homes and take shelter with locals, in exchange for money, to ensure their safety. They also said that local law enforcement is unresponsive to their calls for help unless bribes are paid. Under the circumstances, they wish to return home as soon as possible, but cannot do so as there is no direct flight to Bangladesh.

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Turmoil in Mozambique: Bangladeshis’ homes, shops being attacked

Most Bangladeshis in Mozambique are small entrepreneurs who initially arrived on tourist visas and later converted them to investor visas. One Bangladeshi national, whose shop was looted along with 10 others, told our correspondent that our government does not have a list of Bangladeshis in Mozambique as it is not considered an overseas labour export market for Bangladesh. There is no diplomatic mission there either. The chargé d'affaires of the embassy in Portugal, which is more than 7,000 kilometres away, is responsible for Mozambique. An official in Portugal stated that they are preparing an area-wise list of Bangladeshis in Mozambique with the help of community leaders, and will send support in case of an emergency.

In light of these developments, we urge the government to explore all diplomatic avenues to ensure the safety of Bangladeshis in Mozambique and facilitate their safe return home. The government should consider coordinating with other countries that are evacuating their citizens from Mozambique to arrange for the safe passage of our nationals. Overall, this situation should serve as a reminder for the authorities to proactively gather data on all expatriate Bangladeshis, not just in known labour markets but across all countries.