Renamo leader Afonso Dhlakama has repeatedly expressed his commitment to the democratic process, although Frelimo's adamant refusal to share power and its exploitation of state resources for patronage has made reconciliation more difficult. In 1994, Mozambicans freely chose their government in the country's first genuinely open elections. U.N. and other civic and voter education efforts led to a massive turnout and renewed confidence in the electoral process. Democratic consolidation, however, remains tenuous. Fifteen political parties are registered under a statute that bars those based on ethnicity or religion.
Rule of law remains problematic.
The judiciary is inadequately funded, understaffed, and subject to Frelimo influence. Mozambique's legal structures are relics of Portuguese colonialism and often conflict with new statutes or the constitution. In many parts of the country, customary courts settle local grievances and occasionally order executions for alleged witchcraft. Brutality by the police and other security forces, including the presidential State Information and Security Service, has been reported. There is apparent impunity for official misconduct and broad disregard of constitutional protections.