THE UNITED NATIONS - The Secretary-General has welcomed the signing of the Peace and Reconciliation Accord between the Government of Mozambique and the former rebel movement, RENAMO, on Tuesday.

In a statement issued by his Spokesperson, António Guterres applauded both President Filipe Nyusi and RENAMO President Ossufo Momade “for their pursuit of direct talks and for their commitment to finalizing the peace process.”

A civil war which erupted following Mozambique’s independence from Portugal, killed more than a million people between 1977 and 1992, but the ceasefire signed then did not prevent periodic violence, as RENAMO moved into the realm of civilian politics, becoming the main opposition party this year. The movement can now compete for regional governorships in elections scheduled for October.  “The Secretary-General calls on all national stakeholders to contribute to durable peace, reconciliation and stability in the country”, said the statement, released on Wednesday. “He reiterates the commitment of the United Nations to supporting the implementation of the peace agreements and bringing about a process of genuine and lasting reconciliation and sustainable development in Mozambique.”