João Lourenço

João Lourenço, born on March fifth, nineteen fifty-four, is a prominent Angolan politician and military figure who has been serving as the third president of Angola since September twenty-six, two thousand seventeen. His political journey is marked by significant roles, including his tenure as the minister of defence from two thousand fourteen to two thousand seventeen.

In September two thousand eighteen, Lourenço ascended to the position of chairman of the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), the ruling party in the country. His political career within the MPLA began earlier, as he served as the party's secretary-general from nineteen ninety-eight to two thousand three, showcasing his long-standing commitment to the party's ideals and governance.

Designated in December two thousand sixteen to lead the party's campaign in the August two thousand seventeen legislative election, Lourenço's leadership was pivotal. According to the 2010 constitution, the individual heading the national list of the political party that secures the most votes is elected President of the Republic. The MPLA's victory, with a majority of one hundred fifty seats, led to Lourenço's automatic elevation to the presidency, succeeding José Eduardo dos Santos, who had held power for thirty-eight years.

Officially sworn into office on September twenty-six, two thousand seventeen, João Lourenço has since been at the forefront of Angola's political landscape, navigating the complexities of governance and reform in a nation with a rich yet tumultuous history.