Higino Carneiro maintains MPLA leadership bid despite legal charges

General Higino Carneiro, a prospective candidate for the leadership of Angola's ruling People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), has declared he will not withdraw from the party's leadership race despite facing legal proceedings.

Speaking to journalists outside the Supreme Court in Luanda following an instruction session, Carneiro denied allegations of embezzlement and money laundering. He maintained his innocence, describing the accusations as “totally unfounded.” The legal case stems from his tenure as governor of Cuando Cubango, involving the alleged use of public funds for private purposes.

During the court session, four defense witnesses were heard. The proceedings are currently suspended while the court deliberates on two requests filed by the defense. These requests contest the rejection of several witnesses and parts of the defense's response to the charges. The outcome of these requests will determine whether more witnesses are heard or if the case proceeds to a final debate to decide if Carneiro will stand trial.