Luanda: Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos, a prominent figure in Angolan politics and former Speaker of the National Assembly, has died at the age of 75. He passed away on Thursday at the Girassol Clinic in Luanda after battling an illness, as reported by ANGOP.

According to Angola Press News Agency, Fernando dos Santos was born on March 5, 1950, and became a member of the MPLA in 1971. His career in public service began after Angola's independence in 1975, with a position in the People's Police Corps. By 1978, he had advanced to become the head of the division. From 1982 to 1985, he served as the head of the National Police, before being appointed as Deputy Minister of the Interior and head of the Information Services (SINFO), roles that saw him play a significant part in Angola's security and intelligence sectors.

In December 2002, Fernando dos Santos was appointed Prime Minister of Angola, a role he held until 2008. This tenure was in line with the then constitutional requirements. The 2010 constitutional reforms led to the abolition of the prime minister position, but he continued to serve the country as the first vice president of the Republic of Angola until 2012.

He served as Speaker of the National Assembly from 2008 to 2010 and then from 2012 to 2022, a period during which he reinforced his political influence and leadership within the legislative branch. In addition to his extensive political career, Fernando dos Santos earned a degree in law from Agostinho Neto University in 2009, enriching his political insight with legal expertise.

His contributions to Angolan politics and institutional development have been significant, earning him recognition from President Joao Louren§o, who awarded him the Independence Medal during the 50th anniversary celebration of National Independence on November 11.