Seven Angolan activists jailed over calls for election transparency
The civil society organisation says its objectives are to ensure black economic emancipation and true radical economic transformation
Luanda — Seven Angolan opposition activists have been sentenced to 45 days in jail over a protest calling for transparency in next year’s election when veteran President José Eduardo dos Santos will stand down. The election, due to be held in August, will mark a new chapter for Angola as Dos Santos hands over power after ruling the oil-rich country since 1979. "The court condemns the accused to 45 days of imprisonment and a fine of 65,000 kwanzas ($390) for the offences of rebellion and association with criminals," said the judge in Cacuaco, a district of the Angolan capital Luanda. Among those convicted late on Wednesday was rapper Adão Bunga, nicknamed "McLife", a prominent critic of Dos Santos. About 50 protesters attended the unauthorised demonstration in Luanda on Monday calling for fair elections, with police arresting seven people. Dos Santos, who has dominated the Angolan government and the ruling MPLA party for decades, has regularly been accused of crushing dissent. The MP...
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