Afonso Dhlakama vs Steve Biko

Dhlakama was a founding member of RENAMO, an anti-communist rebel group opposed to the FRELIMO government. The group was initially backed by Rhodesia and South Africa, and it launched a brutal civil war against the government.

After Matsangaissa's death, Dhlakama assumed leadership of RENAMO. He transformed the group into a formidable guerrilla force, expanding its operations across Mozambique and prolonging the civil war.

Dhlakama signed a peace agreement with President Joaquim Chissano, ending the 16-year civil war. The accords transformed RENAMO into a political party and allowed Dhlakama to contest elections.

Dhlakama ran for president in Mozambique's first multiparty elections in 1994, losing to Joaquim Chissano. He continued to contest elections in 1999, 2004, 2009, and 2014, always losing, which led to periodic accusations of fraud.

After alleging fraud in the 2013 local elections, Dhlakama ordered RENAMO fighters to resume attacks on government targets. The renewed conflict lasted several years, causing casualties and displacement before a new peace deal was signed.

Steve Biko founded SASO, a black student organization that became the core of the Black Consciousness Movement. SASO promoted black pride and psychological liberation from apartheid oppression.

Biko was banned by the apartheid government, restricting his movement and prohibiting him from speaking publicly. The ban aimed to silence his influence but he continued to organize underground.

Biko was arrested at a police roadblock and died from brain injuries sustained during interrogation. His death sparked international outrage and made him a martyr for the anti-apartheid movement.

A collection of Biko's writings and speeches was published posthumously as 'I Write What I Like'. The book articulated the philosophy of Black Consciousness and became a foundational text.