Mozambique’s Supreme Court has convicted Fernando Tsucana, the former Deputy Commander-General of the police, on two counts of defamation. The charges stem from statements made by Tsucana in 2023, during memorial marches for the late dissident rapper Edson da Luz, also known as Azagaia.
At the time, Tsucana publicly accused Fátima Mimbire, a prominent activist, and Manuel de Araújo, the mayor of Quelimane, of leading a riot carried out by “alcoholic and psychopaths.” The Supreme Court rejected arguments that Tsucana was simply following orders from superior officers, ruling that by reading and endorsing the statement, he was aware of the damaging nature of his claims and directly injured the honor of both public figures.
Tsucana was found guilty of defamation and sentenced to four months in prison, which was converted into a fine. He was also ordered to pay 50,000 meticais (approximately $780) in compensation to each victim. However, as the offenses occurred while Tsucana was acting as a state official, the court directed the State to cover the financial compensation, reserving the right to seek reimbursement from Tsucana personally.
Tsucana was acquitted of charges of insult, as the court noted that his statements were not delivered directly to the victims in person, a necessary element for that offense. Mimbire welcomed the ruling, stating that it sets a landmark legal precedent. “Today we have an update, superior orders are no longer a guarantee of impunity. They can lead to criminal prosecution,” she said.
Article source: allafrica.com | Image credit: CLUB OF MOZAMBIQUE
