The Angolan government has moved to ban protests and demonstrations ahead of parliamentary elections.
In a document distributed to the media, the Ministry of the Interior said street protests planned by activists pose a security risk and “may clash with activities of political parties.”
Human Rights Watch has criticized the move as undemocratic and a violation of human rights.
“The Angolan government should not use security as an excuse to restrict people’s rights to free expression and peaceful assembly. They should allow all citizens to actively participate in the upcoming elections, whether through public debates or street demonstrations, as well as casting their ballots,” warns the rights group.
Angola is set to hold crucial elections on the 23rd of August in an environment marred by severe restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, and limited access to information.
