Angolan President Joao Lourenço Sidesteps Fuel Price Hike Debate Amid Deadly Unrest
Angolan President Joao Lourenço Sidesteps Fuel Price Hike Debate Amid Deadly Unrest
By Prince Agbedeyi Odimientimi Desmond – Global Egberi Media International
Luanda, Angola – August 2025 — For the first time since violent protests erupted over rising fuel prices, Angola’s President Joao Lourenço addressed the nation — but notably avoided directly discussing the controversial fuel price hike that has plunged the country into unrest.
Since the government’s decision to increase fuel prices on July 1, widespread demonstrations have broken out across several provinces, with citizens demanding economic relief and the reversal of the new pricing policy. The protests have been met with heavy security crackdowns.
According to human rights groups and local media reports, at least 30 people have been killed in clashes between security forces and demonstrators. Witnesses describe scenes of chaos in key urban centres, with shops shuttered, public transportation paralysed, and tensions running high.
President’s Address: Silence on the Core Issue
In his televised address, President Lourenço expressed condolences to the families of those killed during the unrest and called for national unity and dialogue. However, he did not mention any plans to review or reverse the fuel price increase — the very trigger of the protests.
Instead, the president focused on broader themes of peace, stability, and economic resilience, pledging to continue with government reforms aimed at strengthening Angola’s long-term economic foundations.
Critics say the omission signals the government’s unwillingness to compromise on the fuel pricing policy, which was introduced as part of a broader fiscal adjustment plan to reduce subsidies and attract investment.
Protests Reflect Deepening Economic Strain
The price hikes have compounded the economic difficulties faced by millions of Angolans, already grappling with high unemployment, inflation, and the rising cost of living.
For many, fuel price increases have had a domino effect — raising transportation costs, pushing up food prices, and eroding household purchasing power.
International Concern Over Use of Force
The violent response by security forces has drawn concern from international observers, with several human rights organisations calling for an independent investigation into the deaths and urging the Angolan government to respect citizens’ right to peaceful protest.
Uncertain Path Forward
While the president’s appeal for unity may resonate with some, analysts warn that avoiding the central issue could further inflame public anger and prolong unrest.
Without a clear policy shift or economic relief measures, protests are expected to continue in the coming weeks, testing Angola’s political stability and President Lourenço’s leadership.
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