Angola's capital, Luanda, witnessed unprecedented turmoil on Monday as police reported the death of four individuals and 500 arrests amid widespread protests primarily led by taxi drivers against soaring fuel prices. What started as a three-day strike catalyzed by a 33% hike in diesel prices has turned into a significant wave of collective dissent, marking one of the most disruptive protests in the nation in years.
Thousands of demonstrators poured into the streets, resulting in blocked roads, looting, destruction of property, and confrontations with law enforcement. As discontent simmered, protests lingered into Tuesday, with additional incidents of looting reported.
"This fuel price issue is just the latest in a long line of grievances... People are exhausted. The reality of hunger is hitting hard, and the impoverished are increasingly despondent," remarked Laura Macedo, a local activist, in an interview. The taxi operators initiated their strike in response to government policies aimed at phasing out fuel subsidies in the oil-rich nation, significantly impacting transportation fares and consequently the cost of essential goods.
President João Lourenço has criticized the protests, asserting that demonstrators exploit fuel price concerns to destabilize the government. He highlighted that even after the price surge, diesel costs in Angola remain relatively low globally. Meanwhile, the average monthly wage for Angolans stands at about 70,000 kwanzas ($75), far short of the promised increase to 100,000 kwanzas.
As public frustration reached a boiling point, protesters voiced their discontent not only over fuel prices but also against the governing MPLA party that has been in power for nearly five decades. State media in Angola faced backlash for ignoring the protests, continuing with its regular programming while public outcry unfolded against the government.
In an official response, local authorities expressed alarm over the escalating chaos, largely attributed to the halt of taxi operations, and warned against the risks of participating in the protests. Despite conciliatory gestures from taxi organizations to resolve the strike, spontaneous unrest persisted.
As of Tuesday afternoon, many businesses, including major shops and banks, remained closed, with some civil servants returning to work but private sector workers advised to stay home. Authorities have pledged to enhance patrols in the area to restore order, as chaos continues to grip Luanda in these turbulent times.
