Mozambique’s Archbishop Inácio Saure has condemned violent squatters occupying church land in his diocese.
The squatters have seized vast areas, including plots with Mater Dei Monastery, two seminaries, and St John the Baptist Church.
They have destroyed boundary walls, cut down trees, and damaged crops.
Despite a court order demanding their eviction, the squatters remain, allegedly backed by powerful individuals.
Archbishop Saure demands justice, citing the church’s service to the poor.
Some speculate the land seizure may be retaliation for the bishops’ social and political commentary.
The situation raises concerns about inter-religious relations, as most occupiers are Muslim and build mosques on seized land.
The archbishop emphasizes the need to restore the church’s rights, showing the impact on its mission to serve the poor.