No suspense as Mozambique prepares to vote with Frelimo the likely winner

In Maputo, Mozambique, Frelimo's dominance in upcoming elections sparks skepticism and hope among citizens.

Across Maputo are red flags pierced by harsh sunlight and faded walls are plastered with posters of Frelimo, the party that has been in power in Mozambique for half a century.

In the vibrant capital of the Portuguese-speaking country, the lack of suspense is palpable days ahead of October 9 presidential and parliamentary elections, but it still stirs emotion.

Frelimo will be declared the winner, as it always is, said a 33-year-old selling cell-phone airtime on the street.

“Our elections are never transparent because people vote but the results are manipulated,” said the vendor, who would only give his name as Jorge.

The destitute southern African country with high levels of inequality needs elections to bring changes, said a security guard chatting among other vendors.

At every crossroad, giant billboards display the face of Daniel Chapo, the ruling party’s candidate, in an open-collared white shirt against a red background and the slogan “Forward” and “Get to work!”.

A young woman walks into a modest restaurant in the city centre with a Frelimo flag tied over her jeans. “They give us money to wear them,” she said.