Rui Kandove
Africa-Press – Angola. In recent days, clear signs have begun to emerge that the MPLA’s leadership is already being shaped. But not with official announcements or bombastic speeches. It’s being done like almost everything else in the party: with silence, symbolic messages, and plenty of behind-the-scenes maneuvering.
Three names gained prominence in this movement: Higino Carneiro and Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos (Nandó) and Carlos Feijó.
Each has their own weight, style, and allies. But what’s really happening? Who wants what? And what does this tell us about the party’s current situation?
Feijó: the jurist who wants to remember that he “was there from the beginning”
Carlos Feijó recently appeared alongside former Vice President Bornito de Sousa, discussing the 2010 Constitution and explaining that everything was designed to ensure the succession of José Eduardo dos Santos (JES). For those who follow politics, this is anything but a detail. It’s a way of saying: “I was there. I helped build the system.” Feijó wants people—especially within the MPLA—to see him as someone who understands the inner workings of power like few others.
A respected jurist, a mastermind behind the structure. This may not excite the masses, but it carries weight among the more technically minded and elite.
The story of the loan to Portugal: more than a memory, a move. In July of this year, Feijó gave a lecture in Lisbon and recounted how Angola discreetly helped Portugal during the Troika crisis (2011–2014). It may seem like just a behind-the-scenes story, but the truth is that this memory serves to demonstrate that he is not only a man of law—he is also a statesman, with economic vision and international prestige.
At a time when Angola is still trying to regain the trust of markets and external partners, this image of a “man who understands the world” could be useful.
Nandó: “Old” Acquaintance, Possible Balance Card Nandó’s name has been circulating again, this time as a possible transitional candidate, perhaps with Feijó as an advisor. Some say it’s just speculation, waiting to see how people react. But there are also those who believe there are, indeed, serious talks taking place.
Nandó is a safe choice. He’s served in almost every capacity in Angolan politics—even interim president. He doesn’t provoke much resistance, but he doesn’t excite anyone either. He serves well as a balancing figure if the goal is to avoid internal conflicts.
Higino Carneiro: what’s making the most noise
Of all the names in play, Higino Carneiro is the one who has most clearly demonstrated his intentions. He’s spoken publicly, released videos, and delivered a strong, direct speech. And that, in a party like the MPLA, is almost a rarity.
HC brings with him an image of someone who knows the terrain. He was a military man, governor, and minister—and is seen by many as someone who delivers, not just promises. He also has support among the party’s oldest structures, those who still wield significant influence. Are they playing along?
It may seem strange, but the truth is that these three figures may be in conversation: Feijó with his technical authority, HC with his field strength, and Nandó as a link between the party’s generations. If not a formal alliance, it could at least be an alignment of interests: preventing the succession from creating dangerous divisions within the MPLA.
This kind of political maneuvering is nothing new. The party has always worked better behind the scenes than on stage.
And now?
What’s happening now is a rehearsal. There are no declared candidacies (other than HC), but there are visible movements. Public statements that seem innocent but carry a message. Carefully chosen appearances. Discreet meetings.
The MPLA leadership race is being prepared quietly, but with clear signals for those who know how to read it. And, so far, Higino Carneiro seems to be ahead—not only because he spoke earlier, but because he has a more organic base within the party.
Feijó has prestige and a cool head. Nandó has experience and institutional clout. But HC has structure and is on the ground. And that, in politics, can make all the difference.
ANGOLA24
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