Angola: MPLA election victory confirmed September 6 /update 1

Event

On Wednesday, September 6, the electoral commission confirmed the results of the August 23 general election, certifying the victory of the ruling People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) party with 61% of the vote. The MPLA candidate, João Lourenço, will be sworn into office as president on Monday, September 25. The National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), the Broad Convergence for the Salvation of Angola - Electoral Coalition (CASA–CE), the Social Renewal Party (PRS), and the National Liberation Front of Angola (FNLA) issued a joint statement on Sunday, September 3, rejecting the outcome of the general election and demanding a recount due to perceived irregularities. The complaints were dismissed by the election commission. Related protests cannot be ruled out in the coming days.

Context

Presidential elections took place without major incident on Wednesday, August 23, as Angolans elected João Lourenço as a successor to longtime President Eduardo Dos Santos, both members of the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA). The MPLA has been in power since Angola's independence from Portugal in 1975.

Advice

Individuals present across Angola are advised to monitor local news and to stay away from public gatherings, as violence may flare up without warning.

On a separate note, western authorities generally advise against travel to Cabinda province as well as nonessential travel to Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul provinces due to security concerns. Travel should only be considered with appropriate security protocols in place. Due to the threat of kidnapping, those present in Angola more generally are advised to keep a low profile and to remain alert for suspicious behavior and signs of surveillance. If you notice something suspicious, move immediately to safety and report the incident or situation.