Angola: Further protests, clashes over increased fuel prices likely nationwide through June /update 2

Event

Further nationwide protests by civil society organizations and opposition leaders are likely to result in clashes with security forces through June. Civil society leaders have announced protests planned for June 17 in the provinces of Benguela, Bengo, Cuando-Cubango, Cunene, Huambo, Huila, Luanda, Lunda Sul, Lunda Norte, Moxico, Malanje, Namibe, and Zaire. Related protests may be staged on unannounced dates.

Increased security is likely nationwide, at least through June. Any protests in urban areas will likely involve the blocking of roadways, causing localized transport disruptions. Security forces will likely deploy to protest hotspots to remove blockades and disperse protesters, possibly through the use of tear gas and rubber bullets. Clashes are likely should protestors refuse to disperse.

Context

Fuel subsidies are being progressively removed through 2023 by the Government as part of a 2018 agreement signed with the International Monetary Fund. While the subsidy was meant to benefit consumers by lowering and stabilizing fluctuating fuel prices, in effect, it served large businesses and transport services, especially by lowering their operational expenses. Reforms had been repeatedly postponed until after the 2022 election, as the ruling party feared it would prove unpopular and compromise its re-election chances.

The unrest began on June 5 in Lubango and Huambo, where Taxi and motorcycle taxi drivers clashed with security forces amid protests over the cancellation of a fuel subsidy. The violence claimed at least five casualties among protestors. Protestors are angered that the sudden removal of the subsidy has increased fuel prices, leading to a spike in consumer goods prices and transport especially. The protests have grown to include opposition parties, journalists, and civil society leaders, and motives now also include poverty, media censorship, and police violence, among other grievances.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Monitor local media for details concerning civil unrest, as violence may erupt on short notice. Consider using alternative routes if traveling through protest areas; do not drive through any roadblocks. Adhere to instructions from authorities. If violence occurs, leave the area immediately, and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building.