Cristina Marginalized

Abstract

Unlike Frelimo in the 1960s, which had to deal with the dual leadership syndrome where politicians and soldiers jockeyed for supremacy, Renamo developed as a military organization with a leadership and objectives of its own, operating independently of exiled political forces. This was consolidated as Renamo became permanently based inside Mozambique, far from the squabbles and intrigue that characterize exile politics. Even those in the Voz da África Livre, who could rightfully be regarded as Renamo’s precursors, soon occupied the backstage, serving as the mouthpiece of a cause for which they were the first to campaign. That is not to say that the radio station members, or rather the majority of them, did not accept the reality of the situation. In fact, they saw themselves as being part of the same movement, and went on to serve those directly challenging the Frelimo regime in the battlefield, by furthering Renamo’s cause at home and abroad.