Luanda: The Head of State, Joao Louren§o, has announced the formation of a Funeral Commission to coordinate the wake for the former Vice-President of the Republic, Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos, affectionately known as 'Nando', who has passed away due to illness.

According to Angola Press News Agency, the Press Services of the Presidency of the Republic disclosed that the commission will be led by Francisco Pereira Furtado, the Minister of State and Head of the Military Office of the President. The commission's members include key government figures such as the Minister of State and Chief of Staff, the Minister of State for Social Affairs, and the Ministers of National Defence, Interior, Territorial Administration, Foreign Affairs, Finance, Health, Justice and Human Rights, and Telecommunications, Information Technologies and Mass Media. The Secretary-General of the President and the Governor of Luanda Province are also part of this crucial team.

The ministers have been advised to designate representatives to collaborate with the commission coordinator to ensure the mission's success. The Funeral Commission is tasked with organizing the official program and setting up all necessary arrangements for the wake of the respected statesman.

Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos was born on March 5, 1950, and passed away on Thursday at the Girassol Clinic in Luanda. His political journey began in 1971 with the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA). Following Angola's independence in 1975, he joined the Central Police Corps of Angola, ascending to the position of division chief by 1978.

His career included roles in the National Police and as Vice-Minister of the Interior and head of the Information Services, where he played a significant role in security and intelligence. He served as Prime Minister from 2002 to 2008, transitioning to First Vice-President of Angola after the 2010 constitutional changes. He also held the position of Speaker of the National Assembly twice, from 2008 to 2010 and from 2012 to 2022.

In addition to his political career, Fernando da Piedade graduated in law from Agostinho Neto University in 2009, enhancing his legal and political acumen. His contributions to Angola's development and institutional consolidation have been acknowledged, culminating in his decoration with the Independence class medal by Joao Louren§o during the 50th anniversary of National Independence.