Mozambique’s government has defended its decision to formalise a package of benefits for former heads of state, saying the measures are intended to guarantee “dignity” and “appropriate conditions” after leaving office, amid growing public criticism.
“The Mozambican state has established and regulated what it considers to be the benefits due to leaders who have left office and must maintain dignity, because they were presidents who led the country and played an important role,” government spokesperson Salim Valá said after the weekly Council of Ministers meeting in Maputo.
Under the new decree, former Mozambican presidents will be entitled to a range of state-funded benefits, including 30 days of paid annual holidays, an office, a pension, a salary, and eight vehicles, among other privileges.
The regulation, which came into force on March 27, formalises existing constitutional provisions regarding the rights and duties of former heads of state after leaving office.
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Mozambique currently has three former presidents: Joaquim Chissano (1986–2005), Armando Guebuza (2005–2015), and Filipe Nyusi (2015–2025).
According to the government, the regulation is intended to systematise existing rights and ensure former leaders can function “with dignity and appropriate conditions.”
The decree also sets out duties for former presidents, including respecting the constitution, contributing to civic development, and participating in advisory bodies when invited.
Former presidents are also entitled to an office, special protection provided by the Presidential Guard, a pension, an “exceptional” salary, housing allowances, transport, medical care, travel support, and technical staff funded by the state.
In addition, spouses and heirs of former presidents are entitled to a survivor’s pension equal to 100% of the current salary or pension.
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The regulation further states that former presidents must live in their own residences but receive state funding for maintenance and upgrades every three years.
They are also entitled to multiple state vehicles, including protocol cars, escort vehicles, and personal transport for family members, replaced every five years.
The state will cover medical expenses for former presidents and their families, including spouses, dependent children, and parents, as well as health insurance and annual first-class travel for holidays lasting up to 30 days.
