President João Lourenço addressed the nation for the first time since violent protests erupted over fuel price hikes, thanking security forces for restoring order while avoiding direct mention of the policy that sparked the demonstrations. At least 30 people were killed in clashes between police and protesters angered by rising living costs.
In his speech, Lourenço did not acknowledge the fuel price increases implemented on July 1 but instead blamed the unrest on “irresponsible citizens manipulated by unpatriotic organizations,” without providing further details. He defended the police response, stating that their actions were necessary to maintain public order.
Human rights groups, however, have accused security forces of excessive force, alleging that officers fired on unarmed demonstrators. The Interior Minister countered these claims, saying police intervened to prevent widespread looting and vandalism.
Lourenço announced support measures for businesses affected by the violence, though specifics were not provided. By Saturday, relative calm had returned to the capital, Luanda, with public transport resuming and shops reopening.
As one of Africa’s top oil producers, Angola has struggled with economic instability, and the recent fuel subsidy cuts have intensified public frustration. The government has yet to indicate whether it will reconsider the price hikes amid ongoing tensions.
