After 37 years already Angolan Dos Santos named sole Presidential candidate

LUANDA, July 7 (Reuters) – Angolan President Jose Eduardo dos Santos is the only candidate for the presidency of the ruling MPLA, the party’s central committee has said, according to state media.

Angola President Jose Eduardo dos Santos, is the only Presidential candidate in the upcoming elections, despite having ruled for 37 years.
Angolan President Jose Eduardo dos Santos, is the only Presidential candidate in the upcoming elections for the ruling MPLA party, despite having led for 37 years.

The move ends speculation that Dos Santos, who has ruled the oil-rich southern African nation since 1979, might not make himself available.

Dos Santos said in March he intended to step down in 2018 but gave no reason for his decision and did not name a preferred successor. The MPLA’s convention where its top leader is anointed will be held in August and the general elections are due in late 2017.

The leader of the winning party will then become president.

“MPLA presidency post takes responsibilities that demand strong leadership qualities … qualities recognized in the militant Jose Eduardo dos Santos,” said a supporting motion to Dos Santos’ candidacy by the MPLA Central Committee that is preparing the August party convention.

This effectively means Dos Santos is the only candidate.

Read also: Angola oil company’s new chair: President’s daughter, richest African woman

Angola has been hit hard by the slump in global crude prices, which has ramped up pressure on its kwanza currency and ignited inflation.

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