Kikwete’s word to Mozambican MPs

Dar es Salaam. President Jakaya Kikwete has urged Mozambican Parliament members to settle their political differences.

President Kikwete made the appeal on Thursday during his talks with Mozambican Parliament Speaker, Ms Veronica Macamo, at the start of his two-day official visit to the southern African country at the invitation of Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi.

“You (Mozambican MPs) should hold talks to quickly resolve your differences. We don’t want to see you starting another war after a 22-year lull,” he said.

He added: “As MPs you have an obligation to ensure that Mozambique is not turned into a battle ground again. People want development and not wars.”

He said the MPs should come up with a consensus aimed at re-uniting all political parties for the good of the country and its people.

The talks between President Kikwete and the Mozambican Parliament Speaker from the ruling Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO) were also attended by MPs from opposition parties- Mozambique Democratic Movement (MDM) and Mozambican National Resistance (RENAMO).

On arrival in Maputo, President Kikwete held talks with President Nyusi aimed at strengthening the two countries’ bilateral relations.

Yesterday, President Kikwete was expected to visit Pemba town in Cabo Delgado province before meeting Tanzanians living in Mozambique.

After his tour of Mozambique, the Preident is expected to visit Mtwara Region.