Luanda: Due to alleged constitutional, legal, and technical inconsistencies, the National Assembly rejected on Thursday, in general terms, the draft law amending personal data protection, an initiative of the UNITA Parliamentary Group. The proposal was considered during the 2nd Extraordinary Plenary Meeting of the 4th Legislative Session and, according to the proponents, aimed to promote greater transparency and access to personal data of an electoral nature.
According to Angola Press News Agency, UNITA deputy Olivio Quilumbo stated that the initiative intended to strengthen electoral transparency, increase the participation of citizens and political parties, and ensure greater reliability of information relating to voters. The proposal also sought to contribute to the reduction of electoral abstention by eliminating constraints related to electoral registrations.
MPLA deputy Nvunda Salukombo expressed concerns, stating that the bill presented constitutional, legal, technical, and political shortcomings. He argued that it would allow the publication of sensitive personal data of voters without their consent, which he believes conflicts with the constitutional right to privacy. Salukombo emphasized that the Constitution of the Republic of Angola does not permit the exposure of citizens' personal data under the guise of electoral transparency.
He further explained that the proposal contradicted the current legal regime for data protection and could necessitate changes in various instruments of the national legal system. Salukombo noted that it is unacceptable to classify certain information as special data while simultaneously submitting it to public consultation without the authorization of its holders.
The MPLA MP underlined that existing legislation already provides mechanisms for access to electoral information, suggesting that difficulties in interpreting or practically applying the law do not justify amendments that could undermine fundamental rights. He highlighted that combating abstention and strengthening trust in the electoral process requires civic education, strengthening institutions, enforcing laws, and respecting the balance between transparency and privacy.
