"We are following with some concern the developments in the vandalism that has erupted in our capital [Luanda] since yesterday [Monday]. It is true that we are experiencing very difficult times of poverty and misery in our country, but we cannot take advantage of this situation to vandalize and destroy everything we have built with great sacrifice," said Angolan Catholic Archbishop José Manuel Imbamba this Tuesday.
Speaking to Emissora Católica de Angola (Catholic Broadcaster of Angola) regarding the episodes of vandalism and violence that have been recorded in Luanda since Monday, following the taxi drivers' strike, José Manuel Imbamba, also president of the Episcopal Conference of Angola and São Tomé (CEAST), called for civility and dialogue.
He urged young people to exercise restraint, "so that civility may prevail and dialogue may continue" between Angolans and their institutions, also highlighting the need for greater humility and serenity to address and face "problems without animosity that destroys everything" that has already been built.
"I implore God to pour out his blessings on all of us so that we can be more inclusive, work together, and build our dreams based on solidarity, development, respect, and human dignity," concluded the CEAST leader.
The taxi drivers' strike, called by the industry associations, enters its second day this Tuesday, marked by looting, barricades, looting of commercial establishments, and acts of violence—actions already condemned by the authorities and other civil society actors.
The Islamic Council of Angola (CONSIA), in a statement released this Tuesday, advises the population to be civil, civil, and orderly in demanding their rights, "which are just," stating that the strike is a right exercised based on the country's current regulations.
It urges the Angolan authorities to prioritize dialogue and consultation with the protest organizers in order to hear the people's outcry and "not ignore the signs of frustration and exhaustion among the population."
In this statement, signed by its president, Altino da Conceição Miguel, CONSIA also asks Muslim believers to exercise caution and restraint in their actions, as well as to be vigilant in their homes, mosques, and workplaces.
At least four people died and more than 500 were arrested following the protests that began Monday in Luanda, according to Mateus Rodrigues, spokesperson for the Angolan Police General Command, who announced this Tuesday.
