MOZAMBIQUE’S main opposition leader returned from self-imposed exile today, as security forces fired tear gas at hundreds of his supporters who had gathered to welcome him at the airport.

Venancio Mondlane was seen walking off a plane at Mavalane International Airport in the capital, Maputo. He had left the country in October following a disputed election that has sparked months of violent protests and thrown the country into turmoil.

Mr Mondlane said he left fearing for his life after two senior members of his opposition party were killed in their car by unknown gunmen in a late-night shooting in the aftermath of the election.

Police also blocked roads leading to the airport on Thursday after Mr Mondlane said on social media earlier this week he would return to the southern African country.

More than 100 people have been killed by security forces since Mozambique erupted in protests that Mr Mondlane called for after the long-ruling Frelimo party was declared the winner of the October 9 election.

Mr Mondlane and other opposition candidates accused the ruling party of rigging the election and international observers reported irregularities in the vote and the alteration of some results.

Mozambique’s Constitutional Council upheld Frelimo’s victory last month, making its candidate, Daniel Chapo, the president-elect. He is due to be inaugurated next week.