Reform or musical chairs? Angola is experiencing a presidential transition in the midst of an economic crisis and the most serious challenge to the power of the governing elite since the end of the civil war in 2002. President Joao Lourenco-a former Defence Minister who was designated in August 2016 as successor to the 38-year long presidency of Jose Eduardo dos Santos, and took office a year later-moved fast to reshuffle the top jobs in government, industry and the military. The former president's daughter, Isabel dos Santos, was fired as head of Sonangol and replaced by former Secretary of State for Oil, Carlos Saturnino. These changes received a surprised welcome from energy industry investors. But they could be less than they seem.
展开▼
