Protests Erupt in Angola Over Diesel Price Hike
Violence erupted in Angola's capital as protests over a diesel price hike turned deadly. Media reported several fatalities following looting and clashes with police. The government raised diesel prices to reduce subsidies and improve public finances, leading to increased transport fares and a three-day taxi strike.

- Country:
- Angola
Protests in the Angolan capital of Luanda turned violent on Monday following a sharp increase in diesel prices. Local media, including the Novo Jornal, reported the deaths of several people, including a police officer, amid clashes and looting incidents.
The Southern African nation, known for its oil production, increased the diesel price by one-third this month. The move is part of the government's strategy to alleviate expensive subsidies and stabilize public finances, which has led to widespread unrest.
In response, minibus taxi associations raised fares by up to 50% and initiated a three-day strike. Reports indicated that the police resorted to tear gas, smoke grenades, and firing shots into the air to disperse the crowds, with multiple arrests being made. The finance minister emphasized a phased removal of fuel subsidies, previously accounting for 4% of economic output.
(With inputs from agencies.)