Luanda, June 22, 2026
Friends of Angola (FoA) expresses its deep concern and strong condemnation regarding the alleged attack that occurred on June 20, 2026, in Malanje Province against civic activists Francisco Teixeira and Tavares Gabriel, as well as several members of the convoy accompanying them.
According to information made public by Francisco Teixeira through social media, individuals allegedly linked to the MPLA were mobilized to disrupt civic activities and attack participants. The allegations were accompanied by images showing significant damage to the vehicle in which the activists were traveling, including shattered windows.
According to information released by the event organizers, the activists were in Malanje to participate in a public debate that was ultimately canceled due to alleged intimidation directed at the owner of the venue where the event was scheduled to take place. If confirmed, these actions would represent not only an attempt to silence critical voices but also a serious violation of the fundamental rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and civic participation.
Friends of Angola considers it unacceptable that citizens who peacefully exercise their constitutional rights should be subjected to intimidation, violence, or persecution because of their political views or their work in support of citizenship, transparency, and good governance.
In a democratic state governed by the rule of law, differences of opinion must be resolved through dialogue, public debate, and respect for democratic institutions—not through violence, threats, or acts of intimidation.
In this context, Friends of Angola:
- Strongly condemns any act of violence, intimidation, or persecution against Francisco Teixeira, Tavares Gabriel, and the members of the convoy accompanying them;
- Calls on the competent authorities to immediately launch an independent, impartial, and transparent investigation to establish the facts, identify those responsible, and ensure accountability in accordance with the law;
- Urges the Angolan authorities to guarantee the safety and physical integrity of all human rights defenders, civic activists, journalists, and citizens who legitimately participate in public life;
- Calls on all political parties and their supporters to reject political intolerance and promote a culture of respect for fundamental rights and differing opinions;
- Reiterates the need to ensure a safe and open environment for the exercise of civic freedoms, particularly in the context of growing social mobilization and the approach of Angola’s 2027 general elections.
Friends of Angola will continue to closely monitor this case and remain committed to defending the principles of democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and civic participation in Angola.
Political violence has no place in a democratic society. Respect for human dignity, freedom of expression, and civic participation must prevail over all forms of intimidation and repression.
Promoting Democracy, Human Rights, Transparency, and Good Governance
Florindo Chivucute
Executive Director
Friends of Angola (FoA)