Appointment of Angolan president's daughter fuels succession rumours

The appointment of Isabel dos Santos, daughter of the Angolan President as the head of the state owned oil firm is fueling speculation about the succession of the head of state.

Some analysts see the move as the first sign of succession plans for Angola’s longtime ruler, Eduardo dos Santos.

On Saturday, a group of lawyers announced their intention to contest the appointment saying a complaint will be filed with the Attorney General of the Republic and an application made to the Supreme Court against the president for allegedly violating public probity laws.

Paula Roque, a researcher on Angola, said the appointment which comes two months before the elective congress of the ruling party is a clear indication that the president wants to put in place a plan to concentrate power in the hands of his family.

Angolan writer and human rights activist, Rafael Marques de Morais said the president wants to establish a dynasty by making his daughter the vice president and handing over to her along the way.

There have been speculations on the successor of Eduardo dos Santos since he announced his retirement in 2017. Prior to his daughter, his son Jose Filomeno dos Santos was tipped as his successor.

AFP