ANGOLA: First new president in 38 years vows to fight graft

Angola’s first new president in almost four decades vowed to rebuild an economy devastated by falling oil prices and fight corruption at his inauguration on Tuesday. João Lourenço told his supporters in Luanda he would also tackle gaping inequality in Africa’s second largest oil producer . “No one is so rich and powerful that they […]

Angola’s first new president in almost four decades vowed to rebuild an economy devastated by falling oil prices and fight corruption at his inauguration on Tuesday.

João Lourenço told his supporters in Luanda he would also tackle gaping inequality in Africa’s second largest oil producer .

“No one is so rich and powerful that they cannot be punished and no one is so poor that they cannot be protected,” he said to loud applause.

In a 45-minute speech, Lourenço said he would strive to bring in reforms covering gender equality, the freedom of the press, private enterprise and public health.

Former president Jose Eduardo dos Santos remains head of the ruling MPLA party, giving the veteran leader influence over key policy decisions.