Mozambique is currently facing a crisis following a massive prison break that allowed over 1,500 inmates to escape amid ongoing political unrest related to disputed election results. The incident occurred on Wednesday in the capital, Maputo, when anti-government protesters approached the prison, prompting inmates to knock down a wall to flee. Police chief Bernardino Rafael reported that the clashes with guards resulted in 33 deaths and 15 injuries.

This prison break is part of a broader crisis that began with the disputed presidential elections in October. The ruling Frelimo party, in power since 1975, was declared the winner; however, opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane rejected the results and claimed the vote was rigged. Renewed protests erupted on Monday following the constitutional court's confirmation of the election results, which revised the winning margin downward. Initial results indicated that Frelimo's candidate, Daniel Chapo, won 71% of the vote; the court later adjusted this to 65%.

The unrest has intensified across the country, with Frelimo offices, police stations, banks, and factories being looted, vandalized, and set on fire. At least 21 people have died in the violence since Monday, bringing the total to around 150 deaths over three months of protests. Mondlane, who has since fled Mozambique, has urged his supporters to continue demonstrating against the election results, warning of a "new popular uprising" if the outcome is not overturned.

The situation in Mozambique remains volatile, with the government under increasing pressure to address the crisis. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, urging calm and restraint. As the country struggles to restore order, the fate of the escaped prisoners and the future of Mozambique's democracy are uncertain.