Police in Angola reported that four fatalities and around 500 arrests have occurred during widespread protests in Luanda. What began as a taxi drivers' strike against soaring petrol prices escalated into one of the most significant waves of civil unrest in recent years. Demonstrations erupted on Monday, blocking roads, resulting in shop looting, property damage, and violent clashes between demonstrators and police forces.

Frustrated citizens expressed their grievances over rising costs, with one local activist, Laura Macedo, stating, "The fuel price issue is just the last straw that has reignited widespread public discontent... People are fed up." The government's recent decision to increase diesel prices by over 33%, coupled with ongoing economic hardships, has exacerbated the situation. This move is part of a broader plan to eliminate fuel subsidies in the resource-rich country, leading to increased fares for urban residents reliant on taxis and rising prices for staple foods.

President João Lourenço has attributed the unrest to attempts to undermine his government, asserting, "Even after the increase, the price of diesel in Angola remains around 40 US cents [per litre], and there are not many countries in the world with prices this low." With the average monthly income hovering around only $75, citizens face mounting frustrations, particularly following the government's unfulfilled promise to raise wages.

As protests spread throughout Luanda, demonstrators voiced their dissatisfaction not only against the fuel hikes but also against the ruling MPLA party's nearly five-decade governance. State-run media came under fire for ignoring the demonstrations, while government officials condemned the protests as "disturbances" aimed at disrupting the upcoming 50th anniversary of Angola's independence.

The major taxi association, Anata, dissociated itself from the violence but emphasized the importance of listening to drivers' grievances. Despite the initial strike being called off after negotiations, spontaneous protests continued, leading many businesses to close, with some civil servants returning to work while others heeded employer advice to remain home.

Law enforcement insists they are actively patrolling the streets and will respond to any ongoing disturbances to restore order.