Higino Carneiro, a former general and pre-candidate for the leadership of Angola's ruling MPLA party, has stated that he will exhaust all available resources to contest the decision to reject his candidacy. On September 22, 2026, Carneiro revealed that he had submitted three requests for clarification, falsity, and nullity to the Constitutional Court. He emphasized that he will not back down, citing the party's internal statutes and his right as a member of the Central Committee.
Carneiro's candidacy was rejected by the party's subcommission on July 21, citing serious irregularities, including allegedly falsified signatures and the improper use of identification documents. However, Carneiro disputes this decision, arguing that it was made out of time and that the deadline for submitting and regularizing candidatures was still open. He has since appealed to the National Preparatory Commission for the party's congress.
The MPLA party is set to hold its ninth ordinary congress on December 9 and 10, 2026. Carneiro's rejection has raised concerns about the party's internal democracy. He stressed that his goal is not to hinder the party but to promote internal democracy and strengthen the party for the challenges ahead in 2027.
Carneiro acknowledged that time is against him but remains optimistic about his chances. He stated that he has not given up on his bid to lead the party and will continue to pursue his claim. The former general emphasized that his actions are driven by a desire to serve the party, not personal ambition.
Carneiro revealed that he last spoke with the current MPLA president, João Lourenço, on June 2, 2025, when he communicated his intention to run for the party's leadership. Since then, he has relied on the party's institutions to convey his message. Carneiro expressed confidence in his verticality and coherence, which he believes will help him in his pursuit of the party's leadership.
The MPLA has been in power in Angola for 50 years. The party's internal dynamics have significant implications for the country's politics. Carneiro's determination to contest the decision has sparked debate about the party's commitment to internal democracy.
The Constitutional Court's decision on Carneiro's requests will be crucial in determining the outcome of the MPLA leadership race. If the court rules in his favor, it could pave the way for Carneiro to participate in the congress. Key points: Higino Carneiro will exhaust all available resources to contest the decision to reject his candidacy; The MPLA party faces internal turmoil ahead of its ninth ordinary congress; Carneiro's bid to lead the party has significant implications for Angola's politics.
