End of an Era: Angola Loses Former National Assembly President Fernando “Nandó” da Piedade Dias dos Santos
📢 Breaking News — Historic Moment in Angola
Former President of the National Assembly of Angola, Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos, widely known as “Nandó,” has passed away at the age of 75 in Luanda , according to reports from local media and official sources.
Nandó died after being found unconscious at his home, reportedly on the floor of a sauna. Emergency responders took him to Clínica Girassol, where medical teams attempted resuscitation for approximately 40 minutes without success, and he was pronounced dead at around 12:47 p.m. on Thursday, 18 December 2025.
Funeral ceremony
Funeral ceremony in honor of former Vice President Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos took place on Monday, 22 December 2025.
A prominent figure in Angola’s political history, Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos served in multiple top leadership roles. He was President of the National Assembly twice — first from 2008 to 2010 and later from 2012 to 2022. He also served as Vice President of the Republic, Prime Minister, Minister of Interior, Commander General of Police, and held various senior positions within the MPLA and the Angolan state, including as a retired general of the Angolan Armed Forces.
His death comes just days after the 69th anniversary of the MPLA, a historic milestone for Angola’s ruling party.
Summary: President João Lourenço’s Speech at the MPLA’s 69th Anniversary
At the 69th anniversary celebration of the People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), President João Lourenço delivered a major political address reflecting both on the party’s history and the country’s future. (MPLA)
In his speech, President Lourenço emphasized that political parties exist to serve the people, and his message was directed not just to MPLA members but to all Angolans. He highlighted that the anniversary celebration also coincides with the 50th anniversary of Angola’s independence, underscoring the MPLA’s central role in the struggle against colonial rule and in building the nation. (MPLA)
President Lourenço paid tribute to all Angolans who sacrificed for independence — regardless of ethnicity, region, or political affiliation — and acknowledged the support of international partners in both the liberation struggle and post-war reconstruction. He stressed the importance of ongoing efforts to consolidate peace, strengthen national unity, and pursue economic and social development. (MPLA)
The speech also touched on key national priorities, including economic diversification, reducing dependence on oil revenues, boosting agricultural production, improving education, and encouraging private sector participation in national development. (MPLA)
Finally, President Lourenço reaffirmed the MPLA’s commitment to democratic processes and internal party organization, emphasizing that the party will present a single presidential candidate in accordance with constitutional and party procedures. (MPLA)
