Deadly Fuel Protests Sweep Through Angola, Leaving Four Dead and 500 Arrested**

Sun Oct 19 2025 06:03:25 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Luanda witnesses widespread unrest as rising petrol prices ignites public outrage, resulting in fatalities and mass detentions.**

Police report four deaths and 500 arrests in Angola's capital, Luanda, where protests against increasing fuel prices have escalated into violence and looting. Activists state rampant poverty is fueling widespread dissent against government policies, especially amidst ongoing economic hardship.**

Angola is facing significant unrest as protests over surging fuel prices turn deadly, with four reported fatalities and at least 500 arrests in the capital, Luanda. Initially sparked by a three-day strike among taxi drivers opposing a more than 33% increase in diesel prices, the demonstrations have rapidly expanded into some of the most severe public disruptions seen in years, marked by roadblocks, shop looting, and confrontations with police.

On Monday, thousands took to the streets in response to the government's decision to hike diesel costs, which has severely impacted taxi fares and the prices of essential goods. Local activist Laura Macedo conveyed the growing frustrations of the populace, stating that the rising fuel costs are merely the tipping point for a population already struggling with hunger and destitution.

President João Lourenço has downplayed the protests, arguing protesters are misusing fuel prices as an excuse to challenge his government. He emphasized the relatively low diesel price in Angola, compared to other nations, despite ongoing public discontent. The average Angolan family survives on monthly wages equivalent to about $75, heightening tensions amid unfulfilled governmental promises.

On Monday evening, groups protesting the fuel hikes also expressed broader discontent against the nearly 50-year rule of the governing MPLA party. State media has faced backlash for neglecting coverage of the protests, with criticism aimed at their focus on regular programming instead of addressing the unrest.

The MPLA party has cautioned against participation in what they deem acts of vandalism that aim to disrupt the country’s 50th independence celebrations. Authorities voiced concerns regarding the disturbances, labeling them as unlawful actions disconnected from the original strike call made by taxi groups. Despite claims that the strike had been resolved through negotiation, chaos ensued as uninformed individuals reignited the protests, targeting private vehicles.

Despite distancing itself from the violence, the major taxi association, Anata, emphasized that the drivers’ grievances reflect a broader public outcry. As of Tuesday, many businesses remained closed, and the government maintained a police presence to restore order amidst sporadic protests and looting.