Angolan President João Lourenço has dismissed the minister responsible for economic and social development following widespread protests sparked by the government’s decision to end fuel subsidies.
Manuel Nunes Júnior, an experienced minister and economics professor, has been replaced by José de Lima Massano, the central bank governor, according to an official statement.
The removal of fuel subsidies, implemented with the aim of reducing government expenditure, took effect on June 1st, resulting in a sharp increase in fuel prices.
As a consequence, Angola, a nation abundant in oil reserves and one of the major oil exporters in sub-Saharan Africa, has witnessed a wave of protests, with further demonstrations anticipated over the weekend.
Tragically, on Monday, during a protest in the city of Huambo, police opened fire on a group of demonstrators, leading to the deaths of five people and injuries to eight others.
The incident has heightened tensions and added to the ongoing unrest in the country.