Angola’s petrol protest death toll rises as medics overwhelmed
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Protests in Angola over fuel price hikes leave dozens dead and hundreds injured.
Fuel Price Protests Rock Angola: 22 Dead, Hundreds Injured
OMEG TV UK- Angola is reeling from one of the most disruptive waves of civil unrest in recent years, sparked by a sudden hike in fuel prices. At least 22 people, including a police officer, have been confirmed dead, with more than 200 others injured, according to Interior Minister Manuel Homem. The unrest, which began on Monday as a strike by taxi drivers, has escalated into widespread protests affecting multiple provinces.
Strain on Hospitals and Emergency Services
In the capital, Luanda, medical personnel in public hospitals have reported being overwhelmed. Speaking anonymously, doctors revealed they had received numerous protesters with severe injuries, including multiple traumas. One doctor stated, “We fear the death toll may be higher than the official figures suggest.” Emergency services remain stretched beyond capacity, and sporadic gunfire was heard across the city on both Monday and Tuesday.
Government Responds to Violence and Vandalism
The protests were addressed at a cabinet meeting chaired by President João Lourenço on Wednesday. Interior Minister Homem announced the arrest of over 1,200 people and condemned the widespread looting and destruction of property. Supermarkets, shops, and banks have been damaged or destroyed across the provinces of Luanda, Huambo, Benguela, and Huíla. The government described the situation as having moved beyond a simple protest to an organized threat to public order, fueled by infiltrators with criminal intent.
Presidency Defends Policy, Blames Protesters
President Lourenço has dismissed concerns about the diesel price increase a jump of more than 33%implemented earlier in July as part of plans to eliminate fuel subsidies. Speaking to CNN Portugal, he claimed the protests are using the price hike as a pretext to undermine the government. The presidency echoed this stance in a Facebook post, calling the unrest a threat to national stability.
Public and International Reactions
Taxi unions, which initiated the three day strike, have distanced themselves from the ensuing violence and looting, emphasizing that such acts are not representative of their movement. Meanwhile, international flights have been affected, including a Lufthansa flight from Frankfurt to Luanda, which was cancelled due to what was described as the “political situation”. Consulates and embassies, including the US embassy, have issued security alerts advising foreign nationals to remain cautious and limit movement.
Fuel Shortages and Military Presence
In response to the violence, the government has deployed heavy police and military presence across Luanda. Citizens have formed long queues at petrol stations, trying to stock up on fuel and essential goods amid fears of worsening shortages. Many businesses remain closed, and streets are largely deserted as people stay indoors to avoid the ongoing unrest.
Opposition Condemns Both Government and Violence
The opposition coalition, Patriotic United Front (FPU), issued a statement expressing solidarity with citizens suffering under the economic crisis. It blamed poor governance, corruption, and insensitive public policies for the current turmoil. However, the FPU also strongly condemned the destruction of public and private property by some protesters, urging peaceful and lawful responses to grievances.
Economic Impact on Everyday Angolans
The fuel price increase has had a direct impact on urban commuters, especially those who rely on taxis for transportation. As transport costs rise, the prices of staple foods and other basic goods have also surged. Suppliers are passing the burden of increased logistics costs onto consumers, deepening the strain on families already struggling under economic hardship.
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