Luanda: Angolan Minister of Justice and Human Rights, Marcy Lopes, on Monday advised all Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), whether national or foreign, that intend to carry out their activities in national territory to do so under the terms established by the Constitution and the law. Speaking to journalists, on the sidelines of the discussion and vote on the specific Law Proposal that approves the Statute of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), the government official said that the work of these institutions must be respected, just as they must respect the sovereignty of Angola. "Clearly yes. Every State must exercise sovereignty and authority in its territory. It is a question of order and discipline," he reiterated.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Marcy Lopes emphasized that the legislative initiative results from the country's need to adapt to the recommendations contained in the assessment report prepared by the Financial Monitoring Office (GAFI), which identified a set of legal standards and administrative procedures considered non-compliant. Within the scope of these non-compliant procedures, he highlighted that it was determined that Angola should approve a specific law on non-governmental organizations.
Regarding the matter, he stated that the proposed law was prepared by the Executive and sent to the National Assembly for discussion. According to the Minister, the process aims to debate all aspects of the diploma so that, in the end, a legal instrument is approved that safeguards the interests of all parties involved.
Asked about the deadlines for organizations to adapt to the new legal regime, Marcy Lopes stated that they must wait for the final version of the diploma, stressing that, after its approval, all existing institutions must conform their organization and operation to the new legal provisions. The official also clarified that any assessment on the application of the new law can only be made after its approval and publication, since, so far, it is just a proposal that has not yet been definitive.
The proposed diploma under discussion in the specialty aims to adjust the legal framework that governs the activity of non-governmental organizations to the principles enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of Angola, as well as other international instruments to which the country is a party. During this Monday's session, parliamentarians focused the debate on the preamble and the first chapter of the diploma, which, after accepted contributions, were unanimously approved. Discussions around the proposed law will continue on Wednesday, 14.