Luanda, July 29, 2025 (Lusa) - Luanda woke up on Tuesday without its usual hustle and bustle, with empty streets, shops closed and almost no taxis or motorcycle taxis, reflecting a tense atmosphere after Monday's riots.
Following the violence that marked the first day of the strike called by taxi drivers against fuel price increases, the Angolan capital is experiencing a seemingly lethargic state on Tuesday, as if in a pandemic, Lusa reported from various locations.
Silence reigns on the main avenues, where thousands of vehicles and motorcycle taxis, the means of transport most used by the public, normally circulate, but the visibility of the police, reports of shootings and looting, and roadblocks reveal that tension remains.
Shops, banks and various institutions kept their doors closed today and many companies opted to put their employees on remote working, fearing for their safety after the episodes of looting, barricades and vandalism that occurred the previous day.
The National Association of Taxi Drivers of Angola (ANATA) had announced more than 20 days ago a peaceful strike between 28 and 30 July, under the slogan ‘stay at home’, to protest against the withdrawal of fuel subsidies. However, after negotiations with the Luanda Provincial Government, ANATA backed down, and on Monday distanced itself from the acts of violence and announced the cancellation of the strike.
Even so, the impact of the call remained and the protests got out of control.
Today, the popular ‘candongueiros’ (blue and white minibus taxis) remain at a standstill and transport services via app are also unable to meet demand, according to passengers interviewed by Lusa.
On Monday, violent clashes were reported in several parts of Luanda, where barricades were erected with burning tyres, shops were looted and motorists were attacked.
There are reports of deaths and injuries in clashes with the police, but the authorities have not yet confirmed the number of fatalities.
The atmosphere remained tense during the night, especially in outlying neighbourhoods such as Estalagem, in Viana, where shots were reported and vehicles were attacked by groups of angry young people.
Today, there is still a visible police presence on the streets, with military vehicles at strategic points.
The violent protests come amid a backdrop of recent fuel price rises, following the gradual cutting of state subsidies, a measure that has sparked strong social unrest across the country.
RCR/AYLS // AYLS
Lusa
