Luanda: The sons of the nationalists Jonas Savimbi and Holden Roberto expressed their gratitude on Thursday in Luanda for the posthumous medal award for the 50th anniversary of National Independence to their fathers. Speaking to the press after receiving the medal and diploma from the President of the Republic, Joo Louren§o, in the Independence Class, Duro de Monte Negro Savimbi, the eldest son of Jonas Savimbi, considered the posthumous decoration of Jonas Savimbi a great honor and a historic moment.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Duro de Monte Negro Savimbi praised the political courage and spirit of reconciliation of President Joo Louren§o, highlighting the consistency between this act and previous events, such as the return of the remains in 2019, and the legalization of the Jonas Savimbi Foundation in 2024. "The family did not expect the award and considers that the most important thing is the recognition, regardless of the class of the medal," he explained.
Carlito Roberto, son of Holden Roberto, also expressed gratitude and emotion for the medal received in recognition of his father's contribution to the independence of Angola, especially for the Alvor Agreements, which led the country to independence. He said that, although they consider the tribute belated, the family sees it as a positive step that strengthened family unity and encouraged some members to return to Angola.
Roberto said that he expects that the story will be told more completely, promoting true reconciliation and unity in the future, trusting that, with time, things will evolve.
The three signatories of the Alvor Agreement signed on January 15, 1975, in Portugal, namely Ant³nio Agostinho Neto, Holden Roberto, and Jonas Savimbi, were decorated on Thursday in Luanda, in the Independence Class. Maria Eug©nia Neto, widow of the first President of Angola, Ant³nio Agostinho Neto, received the medal and diploma from the hands of the President of the Republic, Joo Louren§o.
Among those decorated in the Class of Honor, in addition to former President Jos© Eduardo dos Santos, are African, European, Asian and American leaders who distinguished themselves for their solidarity and diplomatic role during the national liberation struggle and in the post-independence reconstruction process. The award is part of the recognition of groups of individuals, whose actions, throughout the national historical trajectory, represented an enduring legacy of dedication and service to the Nation.
Since the beginning of the process, in April 2025, at least 4,690 national and foreign personalities were awarded medals in seven previous stages.
