The Angolan Bar Association (OAA) announced on September 23 that it has filed an appeal with the Constitutional Court (TC) seeking a constitutional review of the law on crimes of vandalism, arguing that it “compromises” fundamental rights, freedoms, and guarantees.
In its statement, the OAA described the appeal as a “crucial measure” to ensure the law aligns with constitutional principles and supports Angola’s democratic rule of law. After a detailed legal analysis, the OAA found “substantial evidence” that the law undermines fundamental rights and violates key principles of the Angolan legal system.
The law, which imposes penalties of up to 25 years for vandalizing public property, was approved in July and promulgated by President João Lourenço, with publication in the Diário da República on August 29. While acknowledging the importance of protecting public assets, the OAA stressed that this must not come at the expense of citizens’ fundamental rights.
The OAA reiterated its commitment to upholding democratic principles, emphasizing that respect for rights and freedoms is essential to building a fair and balanced society. The law, passed by parliament with only the ruling MPLA party’s support, has sparked criticism from civil society for allegedly restricting fundamental freedoms, including the right to protest. A civic demonstration against the law was stopped by police on August 31, leading to arrests and intimidation of journalists.