The ceremony took place in the capital’s Republic Square, at the foot of the tomb that holds the remains of the former president, who died on July 8, 2022, in a clinic in Barcelona, Spain, as a result of a prolonged illness.
Lourenço was accompanied by the First Lady, Ana Dias, and the Vice President of the Republic, Esperança da Costa, among other members of the Executive.
For 38 years, Dos Santos was the head of the State and the head of the Executive power, after assuming the responsibility in September 1979 due to the death of António Agostinho Neto, the first president of Angola after the proclamation of national independence on November 11, 1975.
Throughout his administration, Dos Santos brought a negotiated solution to put an end to the civil war (1975-2002). This solution earned him the popular nickname of Architect of Peace, confirmed by the signing on April 4, 2002, of the understanding agreement between the Government and the opposition “Unita” to end the armed conflict.
The celebrations, this Tuesday, for the Day of Peace and National Reconciliation included the presentation of several decorations by President Lourenço to some 400 personalities and institutions for their valuable contribution to the achievement of independence and the processes of pacification and harmony among Angolans.
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