Liberation movements deviated from what they stood for: Chissano

Former Mozambican President Joaquim Chissano addresses the African National Congress (ANC) gala dinner in Johannesburg on July 25, 2025.

Former Mozambican President Joaquim Chissano says liberation movements on the continent have now deviated from what they stood for, which is to serve the people.

He was speaking at the African National Congress (ANC) gala dinner in Johannesburg yesterday ahead of the Liberation Movements Summit today.

The summit aims to discuss a variety of issues amid the geopolitical tensions.

Chissano says some liberation movements are not open to criticism and have moved away from their masses.

He has urged liberation parties to renew their policies to improve the lives of people.

Chissano says, “It is crucial that we recognise that in many of our countries we witnessed the weakening of democratic institutions.”

[IN PICTURES] The African National Congress proudly presented Former President of Mozambique, H.E. Joaquim Chissano, with a portrait in honour of his outstanding leadership and lifelong contribution to the liberation of the African continent. The gift served as a token of… pic.twitter.com/Fhxq86IEPP

— ANC – African National Congress (@MYANC) July 25, 2025

Geopolitical space

The ANC Deputy President Paul Mashatile says the liberation movements on the continent must work hard to be relevant to the current geopolitical space.

He says the world is faced with a myriad of challenges which require decisive leadership.

Mashatile says liberation movements must reclaim their space in the political landscape.

He says South Africa will use its G20 Presidency to pursue some African priorities and present them on the global stage.

Mashatile says, “South Africa’s G20 Presidency recognises that the challenges we face are not isolated, are interconnected. This right wing populist led tendencies undermine global collective decision if left stand to undermine global peace and security.”