Cabinda activists detained in Angola during independence poll

Two activists, José Issambo and Francisco Barros Muanda, have been placed in preventive detention in Cabinda, Angola. The members of the Vanguarda para Referendo Independentista de Cabinda – Aliança com o Futuro (VRIC-AF) were arrested on September 24 while conducting a survey among the local population regarding preferences for either independence or political autonomy for the territory.

According to reports, the individuals were detained by agents from the State Intelligence and Security Service (SINSE) and the Criminal Investigation Service (SIC). Following an appearance before a military guarantee judge on September 25, both men were remanded to the Cabinda Civil Prison.

Political activist Henrique do Rosário Macosso Sita has criticized the arrests, arguing that polling the population on political matters is a legitimate form of civic participation. He has called for international attention to the case, noting a lack of official clarification from authorities. The survey team stated that results will be released once technical and security conditions allow.