Original Source: www.jurist.org
In a powerful call for justice, Amnesty International has urged the Angolan government to investigate police brutality during protests from November 2020 to June 2023, where officers have reportedly harmed and killed demonstrators. The organization highlighted the urgent need for accountability, lamenting the slow pace of justice for victims of these human rights violations. A recent report detailed instances of excessive force used by the police under President João Lourenço, drawing attention to the tragic deaths of at least 12 individuals, as noted by Human Rights Watch.
The atmosphere has been tense since 2020 when citizens took to the streets, driven by soaring living costs and demands for municipal elections. Instead of heeding the call for change, authorities responded with live bullets, tear gas, and batons, turning the protests into scenes of chaos and despair. Videos circulating on social media captured heart-wrenching moments, showcasing police aggression against fleeing crowds and further igniting outrage over police brutality that claimed numerous lives at various protest events.
Despite the obvious human rights breaches, Angolan authorities have not held accountable those responsible for the violence, leaving victims and their families yearning for justice. Even as investigations into certain allegations have been promised, concrete outcomes remain elusive, with no public conclusions reported to date. The international human rights community continues to spotlight these injustices, urging a reevaluation of police practices and advocating for systemic reform to prevent further violations.
Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director, Khanyo Farisè, emphasized the urgent need for independent investigations into unlawful police actions. She called on the attorney general and ombudsman to ensure justice not only for the victims but also to uphold the rights to peaceful assembly. The organization has repeatedly highlighted the necessity for police to respect human rights standards and protect peaceful protests from unwarranted use of force, echoing calls to respect the ICCPR and ACHPR guidelines.
Furthermore, the international community is being urged to amplify these calls for transparency and justice, advocating not only for the release of wrongfully detained activists but also for the protection of fundamental civil rights in Angola. The fate of peaceful protest, a beacon of hope for many Angolans, now hangs in the balance, contingent upon decisive action from authorities and sustained advocacy from the global community.
Amnesty International has been actively monitoring the human rights situation in Angola, particularly relating to police violence during civil protests over the past few years. Increasing discontent among the populace due to economic challenges has led to a series of protests, met with excessive force by the police. Reports have surfaced of police employing brutal tactics, contributing to a cycle of human rights abuses and a culture of impunity, as authorities often neglect allegations against law enforcement.
In summary, Amnesty International highlights a troubling trend of police brutality in Angola, calling for justice and investigation into the numerous human rights violations committed during protests. The lack of accountability and urgency in responding to these abuses endangers the fundamental rights to peaceful assembly and free expression. The cry for justice resonates not only within Angola but also echoes across the globe, urging both activists and the international community to demand change.
