Omunga, an Angolan non-governmental organization promoting human rights, declared, in a statement released this Friday, its unconditional support for the various civil society groups supporting the demonstrations called in different parts of the country.
According to the NGO, in addition to Luanda, where activists have scheduled a march for Saturday to protest the rise in fuel and public transportation prices, the provinces of Benguela, Malanje, and Namibe have also scheduled marches for July 12th and 19th.
The increase in fuel prices, particularly diesel, "and its harmful consequences for families, are the basis for widespread outrage among citizens," thus motivating the demonstrations "as a way to make the voice of the people heard," the statement states.
According to Omunga, the Angolan people "suffer every day due to the government's economic choices," and the removal of the fuel price subsidy has not improved citizens' lives.
This civic association also notes that protesting is a right enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of Angola and therefore calls on the authorities and defense and security agencies to adopt a republican stance, ensuring the protection and safety of protesters.
Taxi fares in Angola have increased to 300 kwanzas per trip, and urban bus fares have increased to 200 kwanzas per trip, effective Monday. This measure follows the increase in diesel prices, which rose from 300 to 400 kwanzas per liter starting July 4th.
Some opposition political parties, namely the Liberal Party, PRA JÁ Servir Angola and the Democratic Bloc, have already expressed support on social media for the demonstrations against the rise in fuel prices in Angola.
