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In a stark reminder of the fragile political climate in Angola, two Russian men have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms after being convicted of terrorism and espionage. Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin were accused of plotting a coup and inciting violence during a series of protests over fuel price hikes that erupted last year. The convictions come at a time when Angola is grappling with rising discontent and calls for political reform.
The Charges and Sentencing
At a court hearing in August 2025, Lakshtanov received an eight-year sentence, while Ratchin was handed 11 years behind bars. Both men denied the allegations, contending that their presence in Angola was strictly for cultural and business engagements. However, prosecutors painted a different picture, suggesting that the pair aimed to destabilise the government and influence the upcoming presidential elections by allegedly financing the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), the country’s largest opposition party.
The turmoil that surrounded the protests was severe, with riots and looting claiming the lives of 22 individuals, as reported by official sources. More than 1,600 people were arrested during the unrest, which stemmed from a minibus taxi strike over soaring fuel prices from 28-30 July 2025. Allegations emerged that Angolan security forces resorted to live ammunition against demonstrators, a claim the government countered by insisting its actions were justified and “progressive.”
The Underlying Political Context
Angola’s political landscape has been tumultuous since its independence from Portugal in 1975. The ruling Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) has faced criticism for its handling of dissent, particularly in recent years as economic challenges have intensified. Human Rights Watch has previously condemned the government’s excessive use of force against peaceful protesters, notably during a demonstration on 12 July 2025.
The connections between Lakshtanov, Ratchin, and Russian disinformation networks have raised eyebrows. Both men were reportedly linked to Africa Politology, a propaganda group that succeeded the notorious Wagner mercenary outfit. Following the death of Wagner’s leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in 2023, Africa Politology underwent a transformation, now operating under the auspices of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) as Africa Corps, further entrenching Russia’s influence across the continent.
The Geopolitical Ramifications
Historically, Angola has maintained a close relationship with Russia, dating back to the Cold War when the Soviet Union supported the MPLA during the civil conflict. However, since João Lourenço became president in 2017, there has been a noticeable shift towards strengthening ties with the United States and Europe. This evolving diplomatic landscape is further complicated by Russia’s increasing involvement in African affairs, with the Wagner group and its successor providing military support to various regimes across the continent, including in the Central African Republic and Mali.
The geopolitical chessboard is shifting; Madagascar’s new president has also sought to bolster relations with Russia, indicating a broader trend of nations aligning with Russian interests in the aftermath of political upheaval.
Local Reactions and Legal Proceedings
In the wake of the convictions, the Angolan public remains divided. On one hand, there is a palpable desire for political stability and a government that listens to its citizens. On the other, the heavy-handed tactics employed by security forces during the protests raise concerns about civil liberties and human rights.
Two Angolan nationals were also implicated in the case, with journalist Carlos Tomé receiving a suspended sentence of two years, while Francisco de Oliveira, linked to UNITA’s youth faction, was acquitted. Both the prosecution and the defendants have appealed their sentences, thus prolonging the uncertainty surrounding the case.
Why it Matters
The sentencing of Lakshtanov and Ratchin is not merely a legal issue; it is a flashpoint in Angola’s ongoing struggle for political expression and reform. As the country stands at a crossroads, the implications of foreign influence, domestic unrest, and government accountability will resonate far beyond its borders. Angola’s future hinges on whether it can navigate these turbulent waters without sacrificing the democratic aspirations of its people.
