At least four people have been killed and more than 500 others arrested in Angola following violent protests triggered by a recent government decision to raise diesel prices. The unrest, which began on Monday, continued into Tuesday across parts of the capital, Luanda, as security forces struggled to contain scattered outbreaks of violence.
The protests erupted after the Angolan government increased the price of diesel by one-third, a move it says is part of broader efforts to reduce fuel subsidies and stabilize the economy. However, the decision has sparked widespread anger, particularly among public transport operators, who say the hike threatens their livelihoods.
In response, minibus taxi associations—key providers of daily transportation in the country—raised fares by up to 50% and launched a three-day strike beginning Monday. The strike quickly escalated into violent demonstrations marked by looting, vandalism, and clashes with police.
“Shops, banks, buses, and private vehicles were vandalised,” said national police spokesperson Mateus Rodrigues at a press briefing. He confirmed the arrest of more than 500 people and said “pockets of disorder” remained across parts of Luanda.
Fuel subsidy reforms have previously sparked unrest in Angola. Similar protests in 2023 over a petrol price hike also resulted in fatalities. Although Angola is one of Africa’s largest oil producers, the country has long relied on fuel subsidies to cushion the high cost of living. Economic challenges, however, have forced the government to begin cutting back on these subsidies.
Despite the growing tension, authorities have not announced any plans to reverse the latest price hike, raising concerns that further unrest may erupt if no relief measures are introduced.
