On Friday, 3rd February 2017, Angolan President, Jose Eduardo dos Santos, confirmed he will not run during 2017 presidential election. He is calling an end to his 38-year rule as head of state but will retain control of the powerful ruling party.

According to Dos Santos, the Defence Minister, Joao Lourenco, will be the presidential candidate for the ruling People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA). He made this statement ahead of a party meeting where candidates for the vote will be confirmed.

President Dos Santos stated that he will remain president of the People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), retaining sweeping powers that include choosing parliamentary candidates and appointing top posts in the army and police.

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