"It was with a feeling of deep consternation that I learned of the physical passing of Professor França Van-Dúnem, a renowned Angolan nationalist, intellectual, politician and diplomat", says João Lourenço, in a message of condolence released by his press services.
The head of state emphasizes that França Van-Dúnem, who died on Wednesday in Lisbon at the age of 89, "always fulfilled his duties with zeal, competence and patriotism", in political and diplomatic positions, such as prime minister, deputy and president of the National Assembly, ambassador to Portugal and Belgium, "gaining domestic and international prestige".
He also highlighted his "prolific academic career", as a professor at the Catholic and Agostinho Neto universities, with several works in the area of Law.
"With his passing, Angola loses one of its most notable figures, who did so much in life for the aggrandizement of the Angolan people and the Republic of Angola", highlighted João Lourenço.
His comrades from the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola also bowed before the memory of the Angolan nationalist "who from an early age embraced the ideals of liberating the Angolan people from the colonial yoke".
"He is part of the gallery of the great sons of Angola, for his dedication and dedication to the liberating cause of the Angolan people, for national independence and sovereignty", reads a note shared on the Facebook page of the party that has governed Angola since 1975.
The president of UNITA, Adalberto Costa Júnior, expressed "great sadness" over the death of former prime minister França Van-Dúnem, saying that Africa and Angola, in particular, lost a "great son".
In a message of condolence, on the death of Fernando José França Van-Dúnem, the leader of the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) also highlighted his great contribution to the training of legal professionals.
"With his physical passing, the African continent and our country in particular, loses a great son who dedicated his life to serving it", wrote the president of UNITA.
Adalberto Costa Júnior also bows before the soul of França Van-Dúnem, former ambassador of Angola to Portugal, addressing on his behalf and all UNITA members, activists and supporters, the deepest feelings of condolence to the bereaved family.
