Deadly Fuel Price Protests Rock Angola: 22 Dead, Over 1,200 Arrested
Deadly riots have erupted in Angola's capital, Luanda, following a taxi strike protesting recent fuel price hikes. As of July 30, 2025, authorities have confirmed at least 22 fatalities, including one police officer, and 197 injuries, with over 1,200 arrests made. The unrest also spread to at least six other provinces in the southern African nation.
Here's a breakdown of the situation:
The Cause of the Protests:
Fuel Subsidy Cuts: The unrest was primarily triggered by the Angolan government's decision, announced earlier in July, to significantly increase the price of diesel by one-third. This move is part of a broader government effort to gradually remove costly fuel subsidies and shore up public finances. Previously, the price of diesel had been hiked from 300 to 400 kwanzas (approximately $0.33 to $0.43) per liter.
Taxi Strike: In response to the fuel price increase, minibus taxi associations (known as "candongueiros," which transport a significant portion of Luanda's commuters) launched a three-day strike starting Monday, July 28, 2025. They also hiked their fares by as much as 50%, further exacerbating the financial burden on citizens.
Rising Cost of Living: The fuel price hikes have a cascading effect, increasing transportation costs and, consequently, the prices of staple foods and other essential goods. This has fueled widespread frustration among Angolans already grappling with high inflation (around 20%) and a high unemployment rate (nearly 30%).
Escalation and Impact:
Violent Clashes and Looting: The taxi strike quickly escalated into violent protests, with sporadic gunfire reported across Luanda and several other cities on Monday and Tuesday. Protesters clashed with police, and there were widespread reports of looting, vandalism, and the destruction of shops and vehicles. A presidency statement indicated that 66 shops and 25 vehicles were vandalized, and some supermarkets and warehouses were looted. Banks were also targeted.
Fatalities and Injuries: Interior Minister Manuel Homem confirmed on Wednesday, July 30, that 22 people had died, including one police officer. The government also reported 197 injuries and 1,214 arrests in connection with the unrest.
Deployment of Army: The Angolan government deployed the army to restore order, stating that the riots had "triggered a climate of widespread insecurity."
Disruption and Tension: The streets of Luanda remained tense and largely empty on Wednesday, July 30, with many shops and businesses closed. Security forces maintained a heavy presence.
Government and Public Reaction:
Government Stance: The government asserts that the fuel subsidy cuts are necessary for economic reform and fiscal stability, with previous cuts in 2023 also leading to deadly protests. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reportedly encouraged these subsidy reforms to free up public funds for health and education. The finance minister stated that subsidies amounted to 4% of GDP last year and are estimated to be 1.8% of GDP this year.
Taxi Unions' Position: The ANATA taxi drivers' union, which called the strike, has distanced itself from the looting and destruction, condemning the violence and stating that its members were not involved in criminal acts.
Broader Dissatisfaction: These protests are not just about fuel prices; they also reflect deeper frustrations with Angola's economic struggles, perceived government mismanagement, and the long-standing rule of the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) party, in power since independence in 1975. Opposition parties, such as UNITA and Bloco Democratico, have condemned the government's policies as "disconnected from the country's reality." Human Rights Watch had previously accused police of excessive force, including firing tear gas and rubber bullets, during earlier peaceful demonstrations in July.
The situation remains volatile, highlighting the significant social and economic challenges facing Angola as it attempts to implement austerity measures.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
