VP/HR — Kidnapping and shooting of anti-corruption activist José Jaime Macuane in Mozambique

10.6.2016

Question for written answer E-004776-16
to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)
Rule 130
Ana Gomes (S&D)

Professor José Jaime Macuane, a prominent anti-corruption activist in Mozambique, is currently in hospital in a critical condition after having been kidnapped and shot in Maputo last week. Mr Macuane and several other prominent activists had spoken out against corruption within the current and previous governments of Mozambique. Last Monday he was kidnapped and shot in the legs, possibly as a form of retaliation.

Mozambique is a signatory to the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption, and as such is bound to maintain high levels of transparency in public accounts. Its people have the right to demand this of their government.

1. Is the High Representative aware of this incident in Mozambique?

2. Has the High Representative raised this issue, and the need to carry out an independent investigation into what happened, with the country's authorities? If so, what results were obtained?

3. Has the EU provided any support to civil society organisations in Mozambique in the fight against corruption?