editor
At least 22 people have been killed and more than 1,200 arrested in Angola following widespread protests triggered by a sharp rise in diesel prices. The demonstrations began on July 28 in Luanda, the capital city, after minibus taxi drivers went on strike to oppose the government’s decision to increase diesel prices by 33 percent. The protests quickly escalated into nationwide unrest, spreading to other provinces and turning violent in several areas.
Shops were looted, public and private vehicles were vandalized, and police forces were deployed to quell the chaos. Authorities have confirmed that 197 people were injured during the clashes, while extensive property damage has been reported, particularly in urban centers.
The diesel price hike is part of a broader set of economic reforms supported by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which aims to reduce Angola’s fuel subsidies in an effort to stabilize the country’s finances. The Angolan government has stated that the reform is essential to reduce fiscal pressure and to redirect spending towards essential sectors like education and healthcare.
However, the cuts have provoked fierce backlash from ordinary citizens, many of whom are already struggling with high unemployment and the rising cost of living. Critics argue that the government is out of touch with the daily realities faced by the majority of Angolans and that implementing such austerity measures without adequate safety nets only deepens inequality.
In the wake of the violence, human rights organizations have raised concerns about the heavy-handed response by security forces. There have been calls for independent investigations into the deaths and arrests, and for the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with civil society.
Despite international praise for Angola’s commitment to economic reform, the events of the past week have highlighted the social risks associated with subsidy removal, especially in nations with weak social welfare systems. The government now faces the challenge of balancing fiscal discipline with the urgent need to restore public trust and address the root causes of the unrest.
