In a question sent to Paulo Rangel through parliament, and to which the Lusa news agency had access, the IL requests clarification from the Portuguese government regarding the "security situation in Luanda and the protection of the Portuguese community in Angola" on the day the Angolan National Police announced a provisional tally of four deaths and more than 500 arrests, following the taxi strike in Luanda, marked by vandalism, looting, and violence.
"Considering the history of instability in the region and the strong presence of the Portuguese diaspora in Angola, including citizens in situations of greater vulnerability and several investments of national origin, it is essential to ensure that the Portuguese State is vigilant and prepared to respond to any deterioration in security conditions," the Liberals argue.
Therefore, the IL wants to know "the Portuguese government's current assessment of security conditions in Luanda, particularly for Portuguese citizens residing or visiting, and for workers at Portuguese diplomatic and consular missions."
"What measures are being implemented by Portuguese authorities on the ground to ensure the protection of the Portuguese community in Angola, particularly with regard to communication, travel, and possible requests for support?", the Liberal deputies also ask.
The IL also wants the Portuguese Foreign Minister to clarify what contacts have been made with Angolan authorities and European partners regarding this situation.
"Does the Portuguese Embassy in Luanda currently have an updated evacuation and emergency response plan? When was the last review of this plan, and what communication procedures with the community are planned in case of need?", the liberals also ask.
Another area of concern for the party led by Mariana Leitão is the impact on Portuguese economic interests in Angola, questioning what follow-up measures are being taken in this regard.
Four deaths and more than 500 arrests is the provisional toll presented by the National Police following the strike declared by taxi drivers in Luanda, marked by acts of vandalism, looting, and violence.
National Police spokesperson Deputy Commissioner Mateus Rodrigues told reporters that the public security situation in the capital is stable, indicating that 45 stores, 25 private vehicles, 20 public buses, and three bank branches were vandalized.
"We are seeing a return to normality, thanks to the work carried out yesterday [Monday] during the afternoon and evening," said Mateus Rodrigues, highlighting the reopening of major roads — where acts of vandalism had been reported — in the last 24 hours, and the removal of obstacles placed on the roads, which impeded the free movement of people.
