Luanda: The draft law amending Law No. 1/12, concerning the Designation and Execution of International Legal Acts, received specialized approval from National Assembly members on Tuesday. This legislative proposal, initiated by the Executive, underwent review by specialized working committees. A vote on the report and joint opinion is scheduled for Friday, with final plenary consideration expected soon thereafter.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the proposed amendments aim to refine the legal framework for implementing targeted financial sanctions and other restrictive measures. This follows the groundwork laid by Law No. 4/25, which enhanced compliance and effectiveness in combatting money laundering, terrorism financing, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The Executive's justification emphasizes that this decree is a strategic component of Angola's response to Financial Action Task Force (FATF) evaluations, aiming to bolster mechanisms for applying financial sanctions and restrictive measures.
The new provisions target individuals, groups, and entities suspected of terrorism-related activities, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and violations of United Nations Security Council resolutions. The initiative aligns with commitments outlined in Angola's 2022-2027 Government Program, the 2023-2027 National Development Plan, and the "Angola 2050" Long-Term Strategy, all aiming to strengthen the financial system's stability and resilience.
During committee discussions, Ant³nio Paulo, Chair of the National Assembly's 1st Committee, highlighted the increased importance of updating the legal framework after the September 11, 2001 attacks. He emphasized the need for harmonization between national laws and international instruments to effectively combat terrorism and its financing.
UNITA MP Olvio Quilumbo raised concerns about the proposal's scope and the 21 substantive amendments it includes. Quilumbo pointed out the difficulty in participating fully in the debate without access to the published version of Law No. 4/25 (of 2025) for a thorough comparative analysis. Despite opposition reservations, the proposal passed the committee stage and is anticipated to proceed to a final vote in next week's plenary session, following the scheduled approval of the joint report and opinion on Friday.
