Luanda:Angola's ruling party, the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), has officially endorsed President João Lourenço's candidacy for another term as the party leader. This decision sets the stage for the MPLA's upcoming national congress.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the approval was made during an extraordinary session of the MPLA Central Committee, which was chaired by Lourenço himself. Esteves Hilário, the party's secretary for information and propaganda, made the announcement.
The decision comes as preparations are underway for the ninth Ordinary Congress scheduled for December. This congress will determine the party's leadership for the next political cycle. The deliberations are focused on ensuring the smooth organization of the congress, in accordance with party statutes and regulations. They also aim to reinforce unity, cohesion, and political responsibility among party members amidst various organizational and electoral challenges.
In addition to Lourenço's candidacy, the Central Committee has made new political appointments. João dos Santos Netos Jané has been named secretary of the Political Bureau for International Relations, succeeding Manuel Augusto. Cátia Maria Afonso Teixeira has been nominated as the provincial secretary of the OMA in Benguela.
As Angola approaches the December congress and other electoral milestones, the MPLA has called on citizens and youth to actively participate in civic life and voter registration efforts. The announcement aligns with preparations for the 51st National Independence Day on November 11. The party has expressed congratulations to the Angolan people and paid tribute to the heroes and combatants of the liberation struggle, whose efforts secured the nation's sovereignty.
The MPLA has also urged its militants, sympathizers, and citizens to engage in patriotic participation in commemorative activities, aiming to bolster national unity and renew the country's development commitment. Furthermore, the party extended greetings to its youth wing, JMPLA, on its 64th anniversary on November 23, and acknowledged Angolan educators on National Educator's Day on November 22 for their significant contributions to educating new generations and promoting civic and patriotic values.
