Luanda: Angolan President Joao Louren§o has decreed a one-day national mourning to honor the former Vice-President of the Republic, Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos, who passed away on Thursday due to illness. The mourning will be observed on December 22, 2025, across the entire nation.

According to Angola Press News Agency, the Presidential Decree highlights the significant historical and institutional contributions made by Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos. It underscores the importance of paying a solemn and dignified tribute to his memory, acknowledging his public service and expressing solidarity with his bereaved family.

The decree specifies that national mourning will be observed throughout Angola, including diplomatic and consular missions, with the National Flag flown at half-mast. Additionally, all shows and public demonstrations scheduled for the day of the funeral will be canceled.

Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos played a critical role in Angola's political landscape, serving as Vice-President of the Republic and Speaker of the National Assembly. His career began with the MPLA in 1971, and he rose through the ranks of the Angolan Police Corps, eventually holding several key positions in the Ministry of the Interior.

He also served as Minister of the Interior, head of the Sectoral Political Directorate of the Internal Order, among other significant roles. In December 2002, he was appointed Prime Minister, a position he held until 2008. With the new Constitution in 2010, he became the first Vice-President of Angola, serving until 2012.

His tenure as Speaker of the National Assembly spanned from 2008 to 2010 and again from 2012 to 2022, solidifying his influence and leadership in legislative matters. Fernando da Piedade's legal education from Agostinho Neto University in 2009 further enhanced his political acumen.

His contributions to the development of the Angolan State and the strengthening of its institutions have been widely recognized. In honor of his achievements, President Joao Louren§o awarded him the Independence class medal during the 50th anniversary of National Independence celebrated on November 11th.