Reflections on Independence and Criticism:

A Critical Look at Journalism and Politics in Mozambique

If you prefer to read this text in Portuguese, you can find it here: https://open.substack.com/pub/profantoniofrancisco/p/reflexoes-de-independencia-e-ideologia?r=1khqf2&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

Introductory Note

Dear readers,

In this 9th edition of the ‘Twin Minds: Alba & Anton’ publication, I share two relevant reflections that articulate themes about journalistic independence and political disillusionments, presented through the critical lenses of Anton and Alba, respectively.

In the text ‘Independents and Whistleblowers,’ Anton presents us with a sharp and ironic critique of journalism in Mozambique. His approach, filled with sarcasm, provides a caustic critique of the current state of journalism while making the reading interesting and engaging.

In ‘Reflection on FRELIMO,’ Alba offers an introspective perspective on the promises and realities of Mozambican politics, illustrating a gradual awakening to the truth hidden behind the veils of more or less radical idealisms.

Alba’s fragments reflect the notorious ‘scientific socialism’ in Mozambique during the first decade of independence, promoted by the FRELIMO party, which was converted into a Marxist-Leninist party in 1977. A Dantean picture that recalls George Orwell’s masterpiece, ‘Animal Farm.’