The conflict in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado continues despite the death of rebel leader Bonomade Machude Omar.
Mozambican researchers have expressed doubt that the killing of Omar will mark the end of the conflict in Cabo Delgado.
He cited the ongoing sociopolitical causes of the conflict and the potential emergence of a more radical leader.
Mozambique’s President Filipe Nyusi announced the neutralization of Bonomade, the “terrorist leader” in the country, but emphasized that the fight against terrorism continues.
João Feijó, an OMR researcher, noted that Cabo Delgado’s war is caused by sociopolitical conditions, not just insurgent leader Bonamade’s activities.
Feijó doubted that Bonamade’s death would impact armed groups significantly as the rebellion is fueled by local discontent in a resource-rich area.
He also noted that President Nyusi might see the leader’s elimination as a symbolic win amidst social unrest, upcoming elections, and Frelimo party divisions.
However, Feijó warned that celebrating Bonamade’s death could create a martyr and a more radical successor due to his fanatical followers.
Similarly, Borges Nhamire from the ISS warned that the killing wouldn’t automatically end the conflict and might escalate it.
Nhamire noted that Bonamade’s death might disrupt armed groups’ operational capacity, but the rebellion’s future is uncertain.
Lastly, the conflict has displaced one million people and caused approximately 4,000 deaths, according to UNHCR and ACLED.