Angola’s Catholic Bishops Deny Involvement in Civil Society’s Call to Cancel Angola–Argentina Friendly Match

“This appeal does not oppose sport or the bonds of friendship between peoples. On the contrary, it is a cry for conscience in the face of the painful reality experienced by millions of Angolans. This reality contrasts shockingly with the ostentation and millions of dollars spent on organizing this event,” the letter reads in part.

The civil society organizations add, “While public resources are channelled into large-scale sporting events, thousands of children and adults face chronic hunger, severe anaemia and widespread food insecurity.”

On repression, the civil society organizations lament that the Angola’s “political environment (is) ... against citizens who express critical thinking. Although Angola presents itself as a free economy democracy, only a select group of citizens, mostly linked to the MPLA — the government-sustaining party — benefit from business and have access to lines of credit.”

According to the organizations, cancelling the planned sports event “would be a noble gesture of international solidarity and respect for human rights.”

In their August 22 statement, CEAST members inform “all public and private media, both national and international, that the documents binding CEAST are signed and sealed by the Bishops or by one of the Bishops.”

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“Together, under the mantle of the Virgin Mary, Queen, let us continue to live the Jubilee of Hope for a better World and a better Angola,” the Catholic Church leaders say referring to the ongoing Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year.

João Vissesse is an Angolan Journalist with a passion and rich experience in Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate.