Prominent Angolan activist found dead in his home
Authorities in Angola on Feb. 26 found a prominent activist dead in his home. Associação Íris Angola in a Facebook post wrote Carlos Fernandes, the group’s executive director, “was found lifeless in his residence” in Luanda, the country’s capital.
Angolan media reports indicate authorities continue to investigate his death, but they suspect he was strangled. His funeral took place on March 1.
Activists throughout the country have organized candlelight vigils and other events to honor Fernandes. “His departure leaves a huge void in our community and a deep mourning in our hearts,” said Associação Íris Angola.
Angolan lawmakers in 2020 decriminalized consensual same-sex sexual relations and banned violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation in the former Portuguese colony.
