Angolan Catholic Church Demands Human-Centric Policies and Anti-Corruption Measures
Bishops urge government to prioritize citizens and transparency ahead of 2027 elections.
1Call for Policy Reform
The Catholic Episcopal Conference of Angola and Sao Tome, known as CEAST, recently convened for its second plenary assembly in Lunda Norte. During the opening, bishops urged the government to place human needs at the center of public policy, arguing that current social and political toxins continue to stifle citizen hope.
2Corruption and Resource Management
Archbishop Jose Manuel Imbamba emphasized the urgent need for transparent management of national resources. He explicitly called for an end to corruption, waste, and cronyism, which he believes hinder development. The Church advocates for prioritizing family agriculture and local production while ensuring better support for essential professionals like teachers and doctors.
3Social Exclusion Concerns
Bishops highlighted that remote communities remain largely excluded from the nation's development progress. These populations are frequently subjected to manipulation and instrumentalization, leaving them on the margins of society. The Church views this persistent social exclusion as an open wound that requires immediate and sustained attention from the national government authorities.
4Historical Reconciliation Efforts
The Church leadership praised the government for its ongoing efforts in national peace and reconciliation. Specifically, they welcomed the October 14 inauguration of the Memorial to the Victims of Political Conflicts in Luanda. This site honors those who died during the civil wars between November 1975 and April 2002, serving as a reminder.
5Youth Unemployment Crisis
Despite acknowledging government progress in infrastructure and energy, the bishops warned that current solutions are insufficient for the population's needs. They expressed deep concern regarding the high rate of unemployed youth or those stuck in precarious jobs. This trend threatens future generations and risks perpetuating cycles of poverty across the country.
6Preparing for 2027 Elections
With general elections scheduled for August 2027, the Church is calling for a peaceful and mature democratic process. Leaders urged political, social, and religious figures to foster tolerance and dialogue. They explicitly requested that confrontational rhetoric be replaced by a language of joint construction to ensure the elections remain a celebration.
7Civic Engagement Requirements
To prepare for the upcoming electoral cycle, the Church has encouraged all eligible citizens to update their registration data and perform their life proof verification. This proactive stance aims to ensure that the electoral process reflects the true will of the people, emphasizing the importance of civic responsibility and active participation.
8Broader Assembly Agenda
The ongoing plenary assembly also addresses complex contemporary issues, including the challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Furthermore, the bishops are drafting a pastoral message for the 2027 elections and reviewing the framework agreement between the Holy See and the Angolan government, reflecting the Church's multifaceted role in shaping the nation's future.