Angola’s Proposed Bill to Regulate Alcohol Sale, Consumption “necessary to correct harmful behaviors”: Catholic Official

The CEAST official said that in Angola, “a country where the youth are visibly engaging in excessive drinking, turning it into a competition to see who can consume the most, this kind of legislation is welcome and necessary to correct harmful behaviors.”

He expressed his support for the move to isolate alcohol joints, saying, “This measure reduces the danger of contact.”

“In a society where alcohol is excessively liberalized, even at funerals and religious sites, this bill addresses the irresponsible commercialization of alcohol that fosters unacceptable behavior in sacred spaces,” Sitongua said.

“Keeping alcohol sales away from sacred places like churches, police stations, schools, and cemeteries helps prevent inappropriate behaviors,” Mr. Sitongua further said, adding that the proposed Bill “contributes to the protection of life, which is one of the highest values, a precious good upon which other rights and values depend.”

He continued, “We cannot ignore the necessity of shielding places like schools, where many young people spend their time.”

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“Unfortunately, we see a generation drowning in alcohol, leading to numerous deviant behaviors,” the CCJP official lamented, and explained, “The Church stands for laws that impose limits, balance, and moderation. In our teaching, unrestrained passions are sinful and represent immoral conduct.”

Mr. Sitongua described the state of drunkenness as “a serious issue, particularly when individuals lose self-control over their consumption.”

“When a society normalizes such behavior, it corrupts its moral fabric and affects many lives. Therefore, this law deserves full support,” he said.

The CCJP official continued, “The Church calls for ethical conduct and the regulation of passions. Anything that leads to disorder and immorality runs counter to our values. Sobriety and moderation are key. Selling alcohol in sacred spaces or near churches, cemeteries, or schools is fundamentally incompatible with religious and moral standards.”

He expressed optimism that the proposed legislation would enhance public morality. 

“We hope it will safeguard good conduct, protect ethical values, and ensure that sacred spaces remain free from the disruptive influence of alcohol. Alcohol impairs perception, reduces awareness of danger, and leads to regrettable actions. It is imperative to regulate its sale and consumption,” Mr. Sitongua emphasized. 

He called for the swift approval and enforcement of the proposed Bill, and added, “Effective punitive measures are necessary to discourage violations.”

João Vissesse is an Angolan Journalist with a passion and rich experience in Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate.