Luanda:Former UNITA president Isaías Samakuva has commended the Angolan Government's initiative to construct the Memorial to the Victims of Political Conflicts, emphasizing its role in fostering national reconciliation and peace.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Samakuva, speaking during the monument's inauguration in Luanda, highlighted the significance of the memorial as a gesture deserving of recognition. He noted that it helps preserve historical memory and encourages reflection on the turbulent events that have shaped Angola.
Samakuva acknowledged Angola's history of prolonged conflict, suggesting that such events could have been avoided. He stressed the importance of using these past conflicts as lessons for current and future generations.
He also remarked on the courage required to embark on reconciliation processes, stating that such efforts deserve praise and recognition. The former UNITA leader urged Angolans to responsibly engage with their history to prevent a recurrence of past mistakes.
For Samakuva, the memorial stands as a symbolic milestone, calling for unity among Angolans, irrespective of political beliefs. He emphasized that differences should never lead to the loss of human lives.
The monument commemorates those who lost their lives in political conflicts in Angola from 11 November 1975 to 4 April 2002 and is part of the government's national reconciliation efforts.
