Provisions in this Accord
Arms Embargo
1991
The Bicesse Accord prohibited the United States, the USSR, and all other countries from supplying lethal material to all parties in the Angolan conflict. After the agreement was signed in 1991, there have been zero reports of either party acquiring additional arms.
1992
Throughout most of 1992, neither party imported lethal material. However, reports suggest that Brazil sold weapons to the government of Angola in December 1992, following the resumption of hostilities after the general election.1
1 Angola: Arms Trade and Violations of the Laws of War since the 1992 Elections, Human Rights Watch Arms Project, November 1994.
Attachment III
- The cease-fire agreement will oblige the parties to cease receiving= lethal material. The United States, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, and all other countries will support the implementation of the cease-fire and will refrain from furnishing lethal material to any of the Angolan parties.
Cease Fire
1991
The Bicesse Accord stipulated a cease-fire between the Angolan government and UNITA rebels, prohibiting hostile propaganda, all armed air, land, or sea attacks, sabotage, and all offensive movement of troops.
The government and UNITA leadership formally accepted the cease-fire beginning on May 15 at midnight.1 However, occasional allegations of cease-fire violations occurred throughout 1991. For example, from May 14-15, the government alleged that UNITA troops continued offensive movement in Bengo Province, Piri, and Qipaxe.2 On August 18, Angolan forces and UNITA rebels clashed briefly in Negola.3 In August, UNITA reported that the Angolan government was importing lethal materials.4 In November, UNITA accused the government of transporting weapons.5 However, no official battle-related deaths were reported in 1991 after the parties signed the agreement.6 UN monitors reported no serious cease-fire violations in 1991.7
1 “Angolan cease-fire date reportedly accepted by government and UNITA,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, May 17, 1991.
2 “Angolan government says UNITA violating cease-fire accord,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, July 26, 1991.
3 “Angola MPLA troops reportedly take UNITA-controlled location,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, August 23, 1991.
4 “Angola government official denies war materiel received,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, August 29, 1991.
5 “UNITA accuses Angolan government of transferring arms,” Xinhua General News Service, November 21, 1991.
6 “UCDP Conflict Encyclopedia,” Uppsala Conflict Data Program – Uppsala University Department of Peace and Conflict Research.
7 “UNAVEM II Background,” United Nations, 2000.
1992
In early 1992, the cease-fire was largely respected by both parties, although there was the occasional allegation of cease-fire violation. For example, in January, the government accused rebels in Bengo Province of offensive movement.1 In April, Angola alleged UNITA movement along the Namibian border,2 and of assembling a secret army.3 In May, UNITA reported that the government was conducting military operations.4 The UN Secretary-General reported that the security situation began to deteriorate throughout July and August, with violent confrontations erupting in Malange, Huambo, Saurimo, Benguela, and Bié.5
Large-scale violence erupted in Angola following the election results. Confirmed offensive movement by UNITA began shortly after the official announcement of election results on October 17.6 On October 24, reports indicated that UNITA had deployed 7,000 troops in Luanda.7 By the end of October, hostilities had resumed in Luanda, Huambo, and Lobito.8 In October, 1,213 battle-related deaths occurred in Luanda.9 The UN brokered a cease-fire between the government and UNITA on November 1, which came into effect on November 2.10 The cease-fire was short-lived, and hostilities continued throughout November and December, although fighting declined significantly after November 3.11 Meanwhile, UNITA continued offensive movement through the end of the year.12 The UN Secretary-General reported that by November 23, 1992, 57 of Angola’s 164 municipalities were under UNITA control.13 By December, media sources reported that UNITA troops occupied approximately 75% of Angolan territory.14 UCDP reports that at least 2,321 battle-related fatalities occurred in 1992.15
1 “UNITA re-occupy three district capitals,” Xinhua General News Service, January 8, 1992.
2 “Angolan diplomat says UNITA moving troops along Namibian border,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, April 13, 1992.
3 Angolan government reportedly accuses UNITA of assembling secret army,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, April 22, 1992.
4 “Angola UNITA radio reports alleged MPLA arms caches and military operations,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, May 15, 1992.
5 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, September 9, 1992.
6 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
7 “Angola attempt to control military situation; UNITA reportedly surrounds Luanda,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, October 26, 1992.
8 “Angola UNITA captures part of Huambo; surrounds Lobito; attacks Luanda airport,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, October 31, 1992.
9 “UCDP Conflict Encyclopedia,” Uppsala Conflict Data Program – Uppsala University Department of Peace and Conflict Research.
10 “U.N. brokers cease-fire in Angola,” Xinhua General News Service, November 1, 1992.
11 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
12 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, January 21, 1993.
13 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
14 “UNITA joins new government, parliament, national army,” Xinhua General News Service, December 10, 1992.
15 “UCDP Conflict Encyclopedia,” Uppsala Conflict Data Program – Uppsala University Department of Peace and Conflict Research.
| Attachment I
Cease-fire Agreement I. DEFINITION AND GENERAL PRINCIPLES 1. The cease-fire consists of the cessation of hostilities between the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA with a view to attaining peace throughout the national territory. 2. The cease-fire must be total and definitive throughout the national territory. 3. The cease-fire must guarantee the free circulation of persons and goods throughout the national territory. 4. Overall supervision of the cease-fire will be the responsibility of the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA acting within the framework of the Joint Political-Military Commission (Commissaio Conjunta Politico-Milifcar (CCPM)) created pursuant to the annex to the document entitled “Fundamental Principles for the Establishment of Peace in Angola”. The United Nations will be invited to send monitors to support the Angolan parties, at the request of the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola. 5. The cease-fire includes the cessation of all hostile propaganda between the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA at both the domestic and international levels. 6. After its entry into force, the cease-fire will obligate the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA to refrain from acquiring lethal material. The United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics informed the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola that they will support implementation of the cease-fire by ceasing to supply lethal material to any Angolan party and encouraging other countries to act in a similar fashion.
II. ENTRY INTO FORCE OF THE CEASE-FIRE 1. Full entry into force of the cease-fire entails strict observance of the commitments assumed by the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA as well as of the decisions made by bodies having the authority to verify and monitor the cease-fire. 2. Observance of the cease-fire shall not endanger logistical supplier of non-lethal material for the military forces present [in the area]. 3. The cease-fire entails the release of all civilian and military prisoners who were detained as a consequence of the conflict between the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA. Verification of such release will be performed by the International Committee of the Red Cross. 4. The cease-fire applies to all foreign forces present in Angolan territory. 5. Entry into force of the cease-fire shall not endanger the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Angola. 6. The cease-fire will, beginning on the date and time agreed upon for its entry into force, entail the cessation of: (a) All armed air, land or sea attacks, as well as all actions of sabotage; (b) All offensive movement of troops or armed groups; (c) Attempts to occupy new ground positions and the movement of military forces and resources from one area to another without prior agreement between the parties; (d) All military maneuvers aimed at installing weapons with the capability to endanger the safety of settlements and the economic, administrative and military infrastructures; e) Patrol activities outside the areas to be demarcated around the areas of assembly for the troops of the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA; (f) All acts of violence against the civilian population; (g) The planting of new mines and actions aimed at impeding activities to deactivate mines; (h) Unjustified restrictions or impediments on the free circulation of persons and goods; (i) Any other actions that may impede the normal evolution of the cease-fire process; (j) Receipt of lethal material, regardless of its origin. 7. Failure to observe any of the provisions set forth above constitutes a violation of the cease-fire, without prejudice to decisions made by the verification and monitoring groups in the performance of their duties. Annex I Verification and monitoring of the cease-fire The Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA hereby agree to the following provisions regarding the verification and monitoring of the cease-fire: C. THE AREAS OF ASSEMBLY 1. All the armed forces shall be assembled 60 days following the entry into force of the cease-fire, in the areas specified in appendix 2. In so far as possible, those areas shall be situated away from major population centres. 2. An organic unit, with its allotment of personnel and materials, shall be situated in each area of assembly. 3. Each area of assembly shall have a contingent of troops numbering at least 100 men. 4. The areas of assembly shall be surrounded by security zones having a maximum radius of 10 kilometers. The parties shall notify the monitoring groups as to the distance they are actually adopting for each of those areas. 5. Within the respective areas of assembly, the forces of both parties shall fully respect the rules of conduct contained in appendix 4.
|
Demobilization
1991
The Bicesse Accord stipulated the demobilization of all UNITA forces not incorporated into the Angolan armed forces. UNITA troops were scheduled to be encamped, disarmed, and finally discharged from the UNITA army or integrated into the Angolan military. The encampment process began in 1991 with the establishment of the Commission for the Formation of the Armed Forces (CCFA), which oversaw the formation of barracks to hold troops in preparation for disarmament and demobilization. The functional regulations for the Commission were formally approved on June 27,1 and the CCFA then began inspecting barracks in preparation for troop assembly.2 The UN Secretary-General reported that as of October 22, 1991, only 95,634 troops (less than 60% of total forces) were contained.3 By this date, 68,666 of the government’s total 115,640 forces had assembled, and 26,968 of UNITA’s total 49,800 forces had assembled.4 No official discharge occurred in 1991.5
1 “Angola’s CCPM approves functional regulations,” Xinhua General News Service, June 27, 1991.
2 “Angola joint commission meets to discuss control measures,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, August 8, 1991.
3 “Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission II (UNAVEM II) (For the period 31 May 1991-25 October 1991),” UN Security Council, October 31, 1991.
4 “Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission II (UNAVEM II) (For the period 31 May 1991-25 October 1991),” UN Security Council, October 31, 1991.
5 “Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission II (UNAVEM II) (For the period 31 May 1991-25 October 1991),” UN Security Council, October 31, 1991.
1992
The encampment process continued in 1992. On January 3, reports suggested that the Angolan government and UNITA rebels had completed the confinement process in Moxico province.1 The UN Secretary-General reported that by February 26, 1992, 93% of UNITA troops had been effectively assembled.2 However, by August 1, 1992, only 37% of government troops and 85% of UNITA troops had been confined.3
Although all forces had not been encamped, the demobilization process of assembled troops began in 1992. The official demobilization of government and UNITA troops began on March 31, 1992,4 and ceremonies on April 1 officially demobilized 3,000 troops from two assembly points in the Moxico Province.5 UNITA demobilized 414 soldiers in Uige Province on July 17, 1992.6 However, the demobilization process progressed slowly, and the UN reported that by September 2, 1992, only 61,994 troops, or 41% of both government and UNITA armies, had been demobilized.7 Of the demobilized troops, 54,737, or 45%, were government forces, while 7,257, or 24%, were rebel forces.8 The UN Secretary-General reported that demobilization accelerated as the September 29 election approached.9 On September 28, the government and UNITA leadership formally disbanded all troops not integrated into the Angolan Armed Forces.10 By October 7, 1992, 96,620 government troops were effectively demobilized, representing approximately 80% of total government forces.11 By contrast, UNAVEM reported that a much lower proportion of UNITA troops had been effectively demobilized, and those that had completed the demobilization procedure became re-mobilized after the election.12
1 “Government, UNITA troop encampment completed in eastern Angola,” Xinhua General News Service, January 3, 1992.
2 “Further Report of the Secretary-General of the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, March 3, 1992.
3 “Angola Unravels: The Rise and Fall of the Lusaka Peace Process, Human Rights Watch, nd.
4 “Angola starts experimental demobilization,” Xinhua General News Service, March 31, 1991.
5 “Angola government and UNITA representatives to CCPM comment on demobilization,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, April 2, 1992.
6 “Angola UNITA reportedly demobilizes 414 soldiers in Uige Province,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, July 20, 1992.
7 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, September 9, 1992.
8 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, September 9, 1992.
9 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
10 “Angola disbands rival troops just before general elections,” Xinhua General News Service, September 28, 1992.
11 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
12 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
| Annex I
Verification and monitoring of the cease-fire The Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA hereby agree to the following provisions regarding the verification and monitoring of the cease-fire: F. PARAMILITARY FORCES 1. The paramilitary or militarized forces of both parties shall have been demobilized or integrated into the respective regular military forces by the time the cease-fire enters into force. 2. It shall be the responsibility of CMVF to verify the observance of the principle set forth in the previous provision.
Appendix 4 Rules of conduct for the troops in the areas of assembly 7. Final destination of the troops and materiel in the areas of assembly (a) The troops in each area of assembly shall either be moved to training centres with a view to the formation of the Angolan armed forces, or shall be demobilized;
VI. FORMATION OF THE ANGOLAN ARMED FORCES A. Identification and general principles Whereas the peace process between the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA presupposes the need to form armed forces, The Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA agree to the following: 9. By the time the elections are held, only the Angolan Armed Forces shall exist; there may be no other troops whatsoever. All members of the present armed forces of each party who do not become members of the Angolan Armed Forces shall be demobilized prior to the holding of elections. |
Disarmament
1991
The Bicesse Accord stipulated the collection of armaments and munitions after troops moved into assembly areas. The encampment process began in 1991 with the establishment of the Commission for the Formation of the Armed Forces (CCFA), which oversaw the formation of barracks to hold troops in preparation for disarmament and demobilization. The functional regulations for the Commission were formally approved on June 27,[1] and the CCFA began inspecting barracks in preparation for troop assembly.[2] The UN Secretary-General reported that as of October 22, 1991, only 95,634 troops (less than 60% of total forces) had been contained.[3] By this date, 68,666 of the government’s total 115,640 troops had assembled, and 26,968 of UNITA’s total 49,800 forces had assembled.[4] Weapons collected from contained troops were stored at assembly sites.[5]
[1] “Angola’s CCPM approves functional regulations,” Xinhua General News Service, June 27, 1991.
[2] “Angola joint commission meets to discuss control measures,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, August 8, 1991.
[3] “Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission II (UNAVEM II) (For the period 31 May 1991-25 October 1991),” UN Security Council, October 31, 1991.
[4] “Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission II (UNAVEM II) (For the period 31 May 1991-25 October 1991),” UN Security Council, October 31, 1991.
[5] “Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission II (UNAVEM II) (For the period 31 May 1991-25 October 1991),” UN Security Council, October 31, 1991.
1992
The UN Secretary-General reported that as of September 2, 1992, the majority of weapons were stored at assembly areas or other locations. [1] However, the report also noted that many weapons remained in private hands,[2] and UNITA and government forces continued to hold significant stockpiles of weapons throughout 1992.[3]
[1] “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, September 9, 1992.
[2] “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, September 9, 1992.
[3] “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
Appendix 4
Rules of conduct for the troops in the areas of assembly
5. Custody of the weapons and munitions
(a) In each area of assembly, the armaments and the munitions shall be gathered at collection points, warehouses, sheds and fields that are adequately controlled and guarded and subject to inspection by the ceasefire verification and monitoring bodies;
(b) Only those individual weapons and munitions necessary for local security services, in accordance with the provision of 4 (b) above, may be distributed to the personnel; (c) Personnel shall be permitted access to the armaments in accordance with the maintenance and training programmes approved by the military commander and cleared by the cease-fire verification and monitoring bodies;
(d) The provision in No. 7 constitutes an exception to parts (a), (b) and (c).
7. Final destination of the troops and materiel in the areas of assembly
(b) The armaments, munitions and remaining matériel belonging to the units in each area of assembly are either to be moved to the training centres set up with a view to the formation of the Angolan Armed Forces, or delivered to warehouses. No demobilized individual shall be permitted to take any article of military matériel with him;
Electoral/Political Party Reform
1991
The Bicesse Accords called for UNITA to formally register as a political party. UNITA did not register as a political party in 1991.
1992
The Bicesse Accords called for general elections to be held from September 1-November 30, 1992. The President of Angola, Jose Eduardo dos Santos, announced on April 2 that general elections would take place on September 29 and 30.1 UNITA leader Jonas Savimbi formally accepted this timeline on April 5, 1992.2 The date was formalized through a presidential decree issued on July 17.3 On April 16, 1992, the Supreme Court of Angola formally granted legal status to UNITA.4 The general elections for presidential and parliamentary representatives began, as scheduled, on September 29, 1992,5 and continued on September 30.6 Since no presidential candidate earned a simple majority of votes, Electoral Law required a run-off election within 30 days of the election results announcement.7 However, no run-off election occurred in 1992, as widespread violence resumed in October following the first round of election results. On December 10, UNITA agreed to join the parliament and cabinet in accordance with the election results.8
1 “Angola sets general election data,” Xinhua General News Service, April 2, 1992.
2 “UNITA accepts Angola’s general election timetable,” Xinhua General News Service, April 5, 1992.
3 “Angola formalizes date for elections,” Xinhua General News Service, July 17, 1992.
4 “Opposition parties granted legal status in Angola,” Xinhua General News Service, April 16, 1992.
5 “General elections kick off in Angola,” Xinhua General News Service, September 29, 1992.
6 “Angola’s first ever multiparty elections enters second day,” United Press International, September 30, 1992.
7 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
8 “UNITA joins new government, parliament, national army,” Xinhua General News Service, December 10, 1992.
9 “Angola command for new integrated army takes up its duties,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, January 13, 1992.
Attachment II
Point 2
At the moment the cease-fire enters into force, UNITA will acquire the right to conduct and freely participate in political activities in accordance with the revised Constitution and the pertinent laws for the creation of a multi-party democracy.
Point 4
Free and fair elections for a new Government will take place following voter registration conducted under the supervision of international elections observers, who will remain in Angola until they certify that the elections were free and fair and that the results have been officially announced. At the time of the signature of the cease-fire, the parties will determine the period within which free and fair elections must be held.
The exact date of said elections will be established through consultation with all political forces in Angola.
IV. POLITICAL RIGHTS TO RE EXERCISED BY UNITA
FOLLOWING THE CEASE-FIRE
1. According to the provisions contained in the document entitled “Concepts for resolving the issues still pending between the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA”, and in the document on “Fundamental principles for the establishment of peace in Angola”, at the time of entry into force of the cease-fire, UNITA will acquire the right to conduct and freely participate in political activities, according to the revised Constitution and the pertinent laws for the creation of a multiparty democracy, particularly including the following rights:
(a) Freedom of expression;
(b) The right to present, publish, and freely debate its political programme;
(c) The right to recruit and enroll members;
(d) The right to hold meetings and demonstrations;
(e) The right of access to the government media;
(f) The right to free movement and personal sanity of its members;
(g) The right to present candidates in the elections;
(h) The right to open headquarters and representative offices anywhere in Angola.
2. Without prejudice to the stipulations of the previous paragraph, which permit UNITA to exercise those rights immediately, UNITA must, after entry into force of the cease-fire, satisfy the formal requirements for its registration as a political party pursuant to the “Political Parties Law” of the People’s Republic of Angola
Military Reform
1992
The Senior High Commander of the Angolan Armed Forces—a position appointed in November 1991 and jointly held by Ahilio Camalata Numa (former commander of the UNITA army’s Northern Front) and Joao de Matos (former government army commander)—officially assumed duties on January 10, 1992.[1] The UN Secretary-General reported that the first phase of training the Angolan Armed Forces was completed in February 1992.[2] Other sources reported that the first training course for officers in the Angolan Armed Forces launched on April 22, training a total of 500 men, including 250 former government forces and 250 former UNITA forces.[3] On July 10, the first training course for air and navy instructors of the Angolan Armed Forces began operations and was attended by 140 former government officers and 40 former UNITA officers.[4] The UN Secretary-General reported that as of September 2, only 19% of the Angolan Armed Forces had been formed.[5]
On September 27, both UNITA and the Angolan government formally dissolved their armies and established the Angolan Armed Forces, resulting in the termination of the CCFA.[6] Upon creation, the Supreme Command of the Angolan Armed Forces was replaced by a General Staff comprised of senior officers from both the government and UNITA forces, including General Antonio dos Santos Franca Ndalu (government) and General Arlindo Isaac Chenda Pena Ben-Ben (UNITA).[7] On September 27, support units for the formation of the Angolan Armed Forces, verification of military disbandment, and logistics/infrastructure were also announced, and positions were officially filled on September 28.[8] Nonetheless, the demobilization of troops and formation of the Angolan Armed Forces remained incomplete.[9] UNITA withdrew from the Angolan Armed Forces on October 5, 1992, in protest of what the organization perceived as fraudulent elections.[10]
[1] “Angola command for new integrated army takes up its duties,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, January 13, 1992.
[2] “Further Report of the Secretary-General of the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, March 3, 1992.
[3] “Angola training course for single national army begins in Benguela,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, April 25, 1992.
[4] “Angola starts to train air and navy instructors,” Xinhua General News Service, July 10, 1992.
[5] “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, September 9, 1992.
[6] “Government and UNITA armies formally disbanded,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, September 29, 1992.
[7] “Government and UNITA armies formally disbanded,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, September 29, 1992.
[8] “Government and UNITA armies formally disbanded,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, September 29, 1992.
[9] “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
[10] “UNITA announces withdrawal from integrated army,” Xinhua General News Service, October 6, 1992.
1991
The Bicesse Accords stipulated the formation of a national army, the Angolan Armed Forces. The establishment of the armed forces was set to occur in five phases: 1) appointment of the CCFA; 2) appointment of the Angolan Armed Forces High Command; 3) appointment of the subunit commanders; 4) appointment of the regional and brigade commanders; and 5) appointment of the branch commanders. The Angolan Armed Forces would be formed partly from demobilized UNITA combatants.
The functional regulations for the Commission for the Formation of the Armed Forces were formally approved on June 27.1 On November 14, 1991, Ahilio Camalata Numa (former commander of the UNITA army’s Northern Front) and Joao de Matos (former government army commander) were jointly appointed Supreme Commander of the Angolan Armed Forces.2
1 “Angola’s CCPM approves functional regulations,” Xinhua General News Service, June 27, 1991.
2 “Angola former government and UNITA commanders sworn in as Supreme Command,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, November 16, 1991.
Attachment II
Fundamental principles for the establishment of peace in Angola
Point 6
The process of creating the National Army will begin with the entry into force of the cease-fire and will be concluded on the date of the elections, under terms to be agreed on between the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA. The neutrality of the National Army in the electoral process will be guaranteed by the Angolan parties, acting within the framework of CCPM, with the support of the international monitoring group.
Attachment IV
Protocol of Estroil
VI. FORMATION OF THE ANGOLAN ARMED FORCES
A. Identification and general principles
Whereas the peace process between the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA presupposes the need to form armed forces, The Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA agree to the following:
1. An Angolan Armed Forces shall be formed.
2. The Angolan Armed Forces:
(a) Shall have as their overall mission the defence and safeguarding of independence and territorial integrity;
(b) May, in compliance with provisions of law, perform other missions of general interest that are the responsibility of the State, or collaborate in tasks related to satisfying the basic needs and improving the quality of life of the population, without prejudice to the aforesaid overall mission;
(c) Shall be composed exclusively of Angolan citizens; furthermore, its organizational structure is unitary for the entire territory;
(d) Shall have such composition, high command structure, troops, mechanisms, and equipment as determined in accordance with foreseeable external threats and the country’s socio-economic conditions;
(e) Are non-partisan and obey the competent organs of sovereignty, within the principle of subordination to political authority;
(f) Swear publicly to respect the Constitution and other laws of the Republic.
3. Members of the military on active duty shall enjoy active voting status, but may not use their duties or the structural units of the Angolan Armed Forces to interfere in any other partisan political or union activities.
4. The process of formation of the Armed Forces shall begin with the entry into force of the cease-fire and end on the date of the elections.
5. The process of formation of the Armed Forces shall evolve simultaneously with the assembly, disarmament, and integration into civilian life of the troops that are gradually being demobilized as a consequence of the cease-fire.
6. Recruitment into the Angolan Armed Forces during the period prior to the elections shall proceed in accordance with the principle of free will, drawing from the ranks of troops that are now part of FAPLA and FALA.
7. It is mandatory that all military personnel incorporated into the Angolan Armed Forces prior to the date of the elections, attend professional training courses with a view to achieving unification in terms of doctrine and procedure that is conducive to the development of an essential esprit de corps.
8. The neutrality of the Armed Forces during the period prior to the holding of the elections shall be guaranteed by the Angolan parties acting within the framework of CCPM and the Joint Commission for the Formation of the Armed Forces (CCFA).
9. By the time the elections are held, only the Angolan Armed Forces shall exist; there may be no other troops whatsoever. All members of the present armed forces of each party who do not become members of the Angolan Armed Forces shall be demobilized prior to the holding of elections.
10. Both parties agree that individual rights acquired by military personnel of the Angolan Armed Forces during the period prior to the elections shall continue to be assured, and that the structural units created up to that point to consolidate those same Armed Forces shall be safeguarded.
11. The units of the Angolan Armed Forces shall be formed beginning at the platoon level.
B. Troop strength
1. The parties agree that the troop strength of the Angolan Armed Forces by the time of the elections shall be as follows:
- Army 40,000
- Air Force 6,000
- Navy 4,000
2. Army personnel shall be distributed in accordance with the following
plan:
• 15,000 operations soldiers, 7,200 of whom shall belong to the Military Regions, 4,800 to the Army General Reserve and 3,000 to the Special Forces;
• 15,000 soldiers for support services and administration;
• 6,000 non-commissioned officers;
• 4,000 officers.
3. Each of the parties shall provide the Army with a total of 20,000 men, distributed as follows:
• 15,000 soldiers, of whom 7,500 are to be operations personnel;
• 3,000 non-commissioned officers;
• 2,000 officers.
4. The first troops assigned to the Air Force and Navy shall be furnished from the respective bi inches of the FAPLA, inasmuch as FALA does not have such units. As soon as the process of training the Angolan Armed Forces begins, UNITA will be able to participate in the Air Force and Navy under terms to be defined within the framework of CCFA.
5. The Navy and the Air Force shall be subject to verification and monitoring, without prejudice to their being permitted to carry out controlled missions as a means of assuring their operationally and the defence of economic interests. As soon as the Navy and the Air Force units become part of the Angolan Armed Forces, they shall be subordinate to the High Command of the Angolan Armed Forces.
C. Command structures of the Angolan Armed Forces
1. General Principles
(a) A Joint Commission for the Formation of the Armed Forces
(CCFA) shall exist, created specifically to direct the process of formation of the Angolan Armed Forces and subordinate to the CCPM;
(b) The Angolan Armed Forces Command Structure, including the High Command of the Angolan Armed Forces and the commands of the three branches (Army, Air Force and Navy) is shown on the diagram in the annex;
(c) The entire command structure of the Angolan Armed Forces, although derived during the period of its formation from FAPLA and FALA, is to become strictly non-partisan and will receive directives and orders from only CCPM, CCFA and the Angolan Armed Forces chain of command;
(d) Appointments to the Angolan Armed Forces High Command and the commands of the three branches of the Angolan Armed Forces are to be proposed by CCFA and approved by CCPM;
(e) The logistics of the Angolan Armed Forces shall be joint, and a Logistical and Infrastructure Command, subordinate to the High Command of the Angolan Armed Forces, shall be created for this purpose.
2. Joint Commission for the Formation of the Armed Forces
(a) CCFA, which is directly subordinate to CCPM, constitutes the transitional body, until the date of the elections, between the politicalmilitary echelon and the Angolan Armed Forces echelon;
(b) CCFA is to be composed of representatives of FAPLA and FALA as members, assisted by representatives of the country (ies) selected to advise them during the formation process of the Angolan Armed Forces;
(c) The duties of CCFA shall be as follows; however, other duties may be assigned to it by CCPM:
• Propose to CCPM the rules applicable to the Angolan Armed Forces;
• Propose to CCPM the budget to be allocated to the Angolan Armed Forces [for the period] prior to the elections;
• Undertake strategic planning for the Angolan Armed Forces [during the period] prior to the elections;
• Propose to CCPM the criteria for selecting personnel from FAPLA and FALA for purposes of forming the Angolan Armed Forces;
• Propose to CCPM the names of the principal commanding officers of FAA, down to and including the brigade echelon;
• Draft directives concerning the phasing of the process of staffing the structural units of FAA.
3. Angolan Armed Forces High Command
(a) The overall mission of the High Command of the Angolan Armed Forces is to detail the generic directives received from CCFA, with a view to staffing the structural units and supporting the forces;
(b) The High Command is composed [during the period] prior to the elections, of two general officers having equal rank, designated by each of the parties. Its decisions shall be valid only when signed by those two general officers;
(c) The High Command is assisted by the Angolan Armed Forces Genera] Staff (EMGFAA), which shall have at least the following staff units, headed by general officers or by field officers:
• Office staff;
• Planning and organization staff;
• Military doctrine and instruction staff;
• Legislation staff;
• Information staff;
• Public relations staff;
• Justice and discipline staff;
• Operations staff.
4. Army Command
(a) The Army Command shall be structured in due course by the Command of the Angolan Armed Forces, within the framework of CCFA, and subject to approval by CCPM;
(b) The structure of the Army Command shall accommodate the military regions and military zone(s) in a position directly subordination to the General Army Chief of Staff (CEME), whose duties are yet to be defined, but which may includes organizing and
preparing the forces, training, justice and discipline and logistical support to the assigned forces;
(c) Each military region shall be commanded by a Commanding
General, assisted by a Deputy General and by a Headquarters General.
The Military Zones shall be commanded by general officers;
(d) The headquarters of the military regions and zone(s) are as
follows:
Northern Military Region, with headquarters in Uige;
Central Military Region, in Huambo;
Eastern Military Region, in Luena;
Southern Military Region, in Lubango;
The Cabinda Military Zone;
(e) The system of forces shall be constituted on the basis of units at the brigade level and other forces that may be assigned to the military regions/zone(s) or maintained in the Army Reserve or the Angolan Armed Forces Reserve.
5. Air Force
The Air Force shall be formed on the basis of the FAPLA Air Force, in accordance with the provision in section B, items 4 and 5 above. The details will be contained in directives issued by CCFA.
6. Navy
The Navy shall be formed on the basis of the FAPLA navy, in accordance with the provision in section B, items 4 and 5 above. The details will be contained in directives to be issued by CCFA.
7. Logistical and Infrastructure Command
(a) The Logistical and Infrastructure Command is to be created, and is to be directly subordinate to the High Command of the Angolan Armed Forces;
(b) The Logistical and Infrastructure Command shall have as its overall function to plan and propose administrative and logistical support for the Angolan Armed Forces and guarantee that it is provided to the Angolan Armed Forces via common services. In particular, it will be responsible for the logistics of production and procurement;
(c) The Logistical and Infrastructure Command is to be commanded by a General, assisted by a Second Commander (a general officer) and by a General Staff that, initially, will include the following:
– Infrastructure Staff;
– Common Services Staff;
– Re-equipment Staff;
– Finance Staff;
(d) The Logistical and Infrastructure Command has command over those support units that may be assigned to it.
8. Phasing and establishing the timetable for the process
(a) The process of forming the Angolan Armed Forces shall proceed in phases, as follows:
– First phase: appointment of CCFA – prior to the entry into force of the cease-fire;
– Second phase: appointment of the Angolan Armed Forces High Command;
– Third phase: appointment of the commands of the subunits;
– Fourth phase: appointment of the commanders of the Military Regions and the brigade commanders;
– Fifth phase appointment of the commands of the three branches;
(b) Immediately following the appointment of each command, the General Staffs are to be organized;
(c) The administrative and logistical support system is organized within the principle of transformation, without loss or rupture of existing structures, in accordance with EMUFAA plans approved by CCFA.
Police Reform
1991
The Bicesse Accords stipulated that the government fill vacancies in the police force with UNITA personnel. No developments have been observed in this year.
1992
The Bicesse Accords stipulated that the government fill vacancies in the police force with UNITA personnel. The process of integrating UNITA personnel into the Angolan police force was initiated in 1992, with the Martires de Capolo Academy issuing admissions tests to UNITA candidates.1 Although UNITA proposed a total of 145 candidates as of August 1992, only 39 had been accepted.2 The government reported that many candidates could not be enrolled because they could not pass the admission tests.3 The UN Secretary-General reported that by election day (September 29), 642 UNITA personnel had been trained and incorporated into the national police force.4 However, following the results of the election, most UNITA personnel withdrew from the police force.5
1 “Joint commission discusses POWs, UNITA integration into police force,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, August 6, 1992.
2 “Joint commission discusses POWs, UNITA integration into police force,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, August 6, 1992.
3 “Joint commission discusses POWs, UNITA integration into police force,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, August 6, 1992.
4 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
5 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
Attachment IV
III. PRINCIPLES RELATING TO THE ISSUE OF INTERNAL
SECURITY DURING THE PERIOD BETWEEN THE ENTRY INTO
FORCE OF THE CEASE-FIRE AND THE HOLDING OF
ELECTIONS
3.1 Consonant with the invitation from the Government, UNITA will
participate in the police force that is responsible for maintaining public
order.
3.2 To that end, shortly after entry into force of the cease-fire, and as a
means of strengthening trust between the parties, the availability of
vacancies in the ranks of the police force to be filled by personnel
designated by UNITA will be guaranteed, and those personnel will be
given appropriate training.
Prisoner Release
1991
The Bicesse Accord stipulated the release of all civilian and military prisoners detained during the civil war, subject to verification by the Red Cross. The Politico-Military Joint Commission (CCPM) set a deadline of July 31 for the release of all prisoners by both the government and UNITA.1 Initially, an estimated 1,564 prisoners were set to be released, comprised of 1,192 UNITA prisoners detained by the government and 372 government prisoners detained by UNITA.2 On July 13, the Red Cross began visiting prisoners of war to collect testimony and gather information to facilitate POW resettlement.3 On July 20, the Angolan government released 107 prisoners,4 and released another 50 prisoners on July 50.5 Although UNITA was scheduled to release prisoners on July 21, the rebels postponed the release, citing technical difficulties.6 On August 10, the Angolan government released 80 prisoners, and UNITA released 44 prisoners.7 UNITA released another 130 prisoners on August 25.8 On October 22, the Angolan government released an additional 17 prisoners of war.9 On October 23, reports indicated that UNITA had officially released its last government detainees from the civil war.10 However, on November 20, UNITA released an additional 182 political prisoners.11 On December 20, UNITA announced that all government prisoners had been released, freeing the final 132 detainees.12 Since the signing of the peace agreement, UNITA has released a total of 532 prisoners.13 However, by the end of 1991, both the government and rebels continued to accuse each other of holding prisoners.14
1 “War captives in Angola to be set free before end of July,” Xinhua General News Service, July 3, 1991.
2 “Angola UNITA postpones prisoner release after first group freed,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, July 23, 1991.
3 “Red Cross delegation visits POWs in Angola,” Xinhua General News Service, July 15, 2991.
4 “Angola UNITA postpones prisoner release after first group freed,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, July 23, 1991.
5 “Angola government releases prisoners under amnesty law,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, July 30, 1991.
6 “Angola UNITA postpones prisoner release after first group freed,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, July 23, 1991.
7 “Angolan government and UNITA release prisoners,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, August 13, 1991.
8 “Angola UNITA releases 130 POWs; 77 choose to stay in Jamba,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, August 27, 1991.
9 “Angola government releases POWs,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, October 22, 1991.
10 “UNITA completes POWs release,” Xinhua General News Service, October 23, 1991.
11 “UNITA releases 182 more POWs,” Xinhua General News Service, November 20, 1991.
12 “UNITA claims to have released all POWs,” Xinhua General News Service, December 22, 1991.
13 “UNITA claims to have released all POWs,” Xinhua General News Service, December 22, 1991.
14 “UNITA official disputes MPLA claims on UNITA troop confinement and POW releases,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, December 31, 1991.
1992
Reports in March 1992 indicated that by the end of February 1992, the government had released a total of 904 rebel prisoners, and UNITA had released a total of 3,043 prisoners. 1 The UN Secretary-General reported that the ICRC confirmed that the first phase of prisoner release was completed in April 1992.2 However, throughout 1992, both parties alleged that the other continued to hold political prisoners. In August, the Angolan government issued a list of 4,649 prisoners they believed remained under UNITA detention.3 UNITA alleged that the government continued to hold at least 400,4 and possibly thousands, of prisoners.5
1 “Further Report of the Secretary-General of the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, March 3, 1992.
2 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, September 9, 1992.
3 Joint commission discusses POWs, UNITA integration into police force,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, August 6, 1992.
4 “Angola UNITA radio says government still holds UNITA prisoners of war,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, August 11, 1992.
5 “Angola UNITA claims government has freed only 504 of 30,000 POWs,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, January 20, 1992.
Cease-fire Agreement
II. ENTRY INTO FORCE OF THE CEASE-FIRE
3. The cease-fire entails the release of all civilian and military prisoners
who were detained as a consequence of the conflict between the
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA.
Verification of such release will be performed by the International
Committee of the Red Cross.
Verification/Monitoring Mechanism
1991
The Bicesse Accords called for the formation of the Joint Political-Military Commission (CCPM) and the subordinate Joint Verification and Monitoring Commission (CMVF), both to be composed of representatives of the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA, as members, and of representatives of Portugal, the United States of America, and the USSR, as observers. The Bicesse Accords tasked the CCPM with verifying compliance with the implementation by both parties with all provisions of the agreement. The Bicesse Accords charged the CMVF with establishing monitoring groups and verifying the operation of the monitoring groups. The CCPM held its first meeting on June 17, 1991,1 and continued to hold meetings throughout 1991. The CCPM established and approved its functional regulations at its third meeting on June 27.2 The functional regulations for the CMVF were approved on June 27.3 However, on September 11, UNITA withdrew from the CCPM, citing government noncompliance with the terms of the agreement,4 but resumed participation on September 17.5 While some regional monitoring groups were established, many remained highly disorganized, fragmented, and ineffective in 1991.6 Others, such as the joint police monitoring groups, were not formed in 1991.7
The Bicesse Accords also called for UN representatives to monitor the agreement’s implementation and participate in the CMVP and CCPM. After signing the agreement, the Angolan government requested that the UN extend the mandate of the pre-existing United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM).8 In May, the United Nations established the United Nations Angola Verification Mission II (UNAVEM II) to monitor and verify the agreement, cease-fire, and elections.9 The mission authorized a total of 350 military observers, 126 civilian police, 87 international civilians, and 155 local staff.10 By July, 120 UN monitors had arrived in Angola, and head-of-mission General Pericles had begun attending CCPM meetings.11 By October 25, all authorized positions were filled.12 UN staff actively monitored compliance with the agreement, particularly by counting troops and weapons in assembly areas and providing logistical support for implementation procedures.13
1 “Angola first meeting of joint commission; legal basis to be established,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, June 20, 1991.
2 “Angola’s CCPM approves functional regulations,” Xinhua General News Service, June 27, 1991.
3 “Angola’s CCPM approves functional regulations,” Xinhua General News Service, June 27, 1991.
4 “Angola UNITA official states conditions for return to joint commission,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, September 13, 1991.
5 “Angola government and UNITA officials interviewed on renewed negotiations,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, September 18, 1991.
6 “Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission II (UNAVEM II) (For the period 31 May 1991-25 October 1991),” UN Security Council, October 31, 1991.
7 “Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission II (UNAVEM II) (For the period 31 May 1991-25 October 1991),” UN Security Council, October 31, 1991.
8 “Angola first meeting of joint commission; legal basis to be established,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, June 20, 1991.
9 “United Nations Angola Verification Mission II,” United Nations, 2000.
10 “United Nations Angola Verification Mission II,” United Nations, 2000.
11 “Angola Luanda meeting of joint commission,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, July 18, 1991.
12 “United Nations Angola Verification Mission II,” United Nations, 2000.
13 “UNAVEM II Background,” United Nations, 2000.
1992
The CCPM and CMVF continued to operate regularly in 1992.
Some monitoring teams that were not established in 1991—such as the joint police monitoring teams—were established in 1992.
In 1992, the UN continued its regular verification mission of the peace process, particularly concerning the verification of troop assembly, disarmament, and demobilization. In addition, the UN authorized 400 electoral observers to facilitate elections in Angola. UNAVEM facilitated the registration process by working with the National Electoral Council and providing logistical support. UNAVEM also monitored the electoral campaign, particularly to verify the freedom of organization, movement, assembly, expression, and access to state media. In addition, UNAVEM provided logistical support for elections and observed voting at polling stations.
1 “Further Report of the Secretary-General of the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, March 3, 1992.
2 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
3 “United Nations Angola Verification Mission II,” United Nations, 2000.
4 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, September 9, 1992.
5 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, September 9, 1992.
6 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
III. VERIFICATION AND MONITORING
1. Prior to entry into force of the cease-fire, a Joint Verification and
Monitoring Commission (Comissaio Mista de Verificacao (CMVF)) will
be formed. It will be composed of representatives of the Government of
the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA, as members, and of
representatives of Portugal, the United States of America, and the Union
of Soviet Socialist Republics, as observers. In addition, a United Nations
representative will be invited to the CMVF meetings.
2. CMVF will report to the Joint Political-Military Commission (CCPM).
3. CMVF will have the authority to create any structures it considers
appropriate for the performance of its duties, namely the monitoring
groups necessary for full observance of the cease-fire throughout
Angolan territory. Such groups shall be subordinate to CMVF.
4. The monitoring groups, which will be established before entry into
force of the cease-fire, will be composed of an equal number of
representatives from the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola
and UNITA.
5. United Nations personnel, who will have their own command
structure, will verify whether the monitoring groups are assuming their
responsibilities. This will include United Nations support in the
investigation and resolution of alleged cease-fire violations. The
Governments that will be sending United Nations monitors will be
selected with the participation of the Government of the People’s
Republic of Angola and UNITA, working within the framework of
CCPM.
6. The bodies and mechanisms created to verify and monitor the ceasefire
will be temporary in nature and will cease to exist at the end of the
cease-fire [period].
7. Other provisions with respect to verification and monitoring of the
cease-fire are set forth in annex I to this agreement.
IV. REGULATING THE VERIFICATION AND MONITORING
MEASURES
1. CMVF will have the authority necessary to ensure the effective
observance of the cease-fire. Particularly, it shall familiarize itself with
the areas of troop assembly, monitor compliance with the rules of
conduct previously agreed on for the troops in the areas of assembly,
coordinate the activity of the monitoring groups, and rule on the
complaints and claims presented in relation to possible violations of the
cease-fire.
2. CMVF will decide on its own regulations, and also has the authority
to define the functions and approve the regulations of such monitoring
groups as it may establish.
3. The monitoring groups will make “on site” verifications of observance
of the cease-fire. Specifically, they are to prevent, verify and investigate
possible violations.
Annex I
Verification and monitoring of the cease-fire
The Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and
UNITA hereby agree to the following provisions regarding the
verification and monitoring of the cease-fire:
A. THE CMVF MANDATE AND REGUALTIONS
1. The Joint Verification and Monitoring Commission (CMVF) is the
entity responsible for the implementation and functioning of the
mechanisms instituted to verify and exercise control over the cease-fire,
provided for in the documents signed on this subject. Particularly, it is
responsible for:
(a) Verifying that the monitoring groups necessary for full
observance of the cease-fire throughout the national territory have
been established. These groups shall be subordinate to CMVF;
(b) Establishing the needed coordination with the special bodies in
the United Nations system of cease-fire verification;
(c) Becoming familiar with the troop assembly areas;
(d) Checking that the rules of conduct agreed upon in advance for
the troops in their areas of assembly are being observed;
(e) Ruling on any complaints and claims presented to it regarding
possible violations of the cease-fire;
(f) Defining the specific sphere of authority of the monitoring
groups, approving the regulations for those groups, and coordinating
their activities;
(g) Analysing and discussing the periodic reports that the monitoring
groups are required to send to it, through the regional monitoring
groups, concerning the manner in which the measures implementing
the cease-fire are being applied within their area of jurisdiction;
(h) Adopting such mechanisms as may be considered necessary to
the exercise of its functions, including the creation of ad hoc
investigative commissions that may travel to the site of the possible
violations;
(i) Verifying the observance by both parties of the principle that their
paramilitary or militarized forces have been demobilized or
integrated into the respective regular military forces.
2. CMVF shall be composed of representatives of the Government of the
People’s Republic of Angola and of UNITA as members, and by
representatives of Portugal, the United States and the Soviet Union as
observers.
3. A representative of the United Nations shall also be invited to
participate in the meetings of CMVF.
4. The meetings of CMVF shall be presided over, alternately in
accordance with the principle of rotation, by the Government of the
People’s Republic of Angola and by UNITA, without prejudice to the
principle of consensus in the decision-making process.
5. CMVF, with headquarters at Luanda, shall have a delegation at Jamba.
6. CMVF shall meet in ordinary session at least three times a week for
the purposes of part (g) of No. 2 [sic], and in special session whenever
any of the parties requests that it be convened to analyse possible
violations of the cease-fire.
7. The decisions of CMVF shall be made by consensus between the
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA.
8. The decisions of CMVF shall be binding in nature, and the parties shall
take all measures necessary to execute them.
9. It is mandatory that the Joint Political-Military Commission (CCPM)
be notified of decisions reached by CMVF on non-procedural matters.
CCPM may request such clarifications as it deems appropriate regarding
those decisions.
10. In the event that CMVF does not reach a decision, or that CCPM
objects to that decision, the final decision shall rest with the latter body.
11. Minutes of the CMVF meetings shall always be prepared, and signed
by the representatives of the parties.
12. The decisions of CMVF shall be confidential in nature, unless CMVF
itself or CCPM decides otherwise.
13. CMVF shall cease functioning at the end of the cease-fire.
B. THE VERIFICATION AND MONITORING SYSTEM
1. On-site monitoring of the cease-fire is assured by the Government of
the People’s Republic of Angola and by UNITA, through monitoring
groups subordinate to CMVF that are to be composed of 8 to 12
individuals from each party, in accordance with the organizational chart
that appears in appendix 1.
2. There will be monitoring groups at all the sites Indicated in appendices
2 and 3. Additional monitoring groups may be created, to be directly
subordinate to CMVF and the regional monitoring groups.
3. Liaison between CMVF and the monitoring groups is assured by the
regional monitoring groups, for which purpose the territory of Angola
shall be divided into the following regions and subregions:
• Northern Region (with headquarters at Luanda), with
tow subgroups located at Negage and Cabinda;
• Northeastern Region (with headquarters at Saurimo);
• Central Region (with headquarters at Huambo), with
two subgroups located at Lobito and Huambo;
• Eastern Region (with headquarters at Luena);
• Southeastern Region (with headquarters at Mavinga);
• Southern Region (with headquarters at Lubango).
4. United Nations personnel, who will have their own command
structure, will verify whether the monitoring groups are assuming their
responsibilities. This will include United Nations support in the
investigation and resolution of alleged cease-fire violations.
5. Coordination with the United Nations verification and monitoring
system shall be arranged at all levels of the existing administrative
structures.
6. The security of the monitoring groups and all United Nations
personnel shall be the responsibility of the party that controls the zone
where they are present.
7. The commanders of the areas of assembly shall provide all support
requested of them by the cease-fire verification and monitoring bodies
and by the United Nations.
8. The cease-fire monitoring and verification bodies shall enjoy complete
freedom of movement in carrying out their duties.
9. Every member of the cease-fire monitoring and verification bodies
shall display a badge and a credential that easily identifies him, and shall
travel unarmed.
Annex
1. The Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
agree to the formation of a Joint Political-Military Commission (CCPM),
to be established at Luanda at the time of the signature of the
“Fundamental principles tor the establishment of peace in Angola”.
2. CCPM shall be composed of representatives of the Government of the
People’s Republic of Angola and of UNITA as members, and by
representatives of Portugal, the United States, and the Soviet Union as
observers. In addition, a representative of the United Nations may be
invited to participate in the meetings of CCPM.
3. It shall be the task of CCPM to see that the peace accords are applied,
thereby guaranteeing strict compliance with all political and military
understandings, and to make the final decision on possible violations of
those accords.
4. CCPM shall have the authority necessary to approve all the rules
relating to its functioning, particularly its own internal regulations. Its
decisions will be made by consensus between the Government of the
People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA.
Attachment IV
Protocol of Estoril
II. JOINT POLITICAL-MILITARY COMMISSION (CCPM)
1. According to the document entitled “Concepts for resolving the issues
still pending between the Government of the People’s Republic of
Angola and UNITA”, and the annex to the “Fundamental principles for
the establishment of peace in Angola”, the Joint Political-Military
Commission (CCPM) has as its mission the overall political supervision
of the cease-fire process. It will have the duty to see that the Peace
Accords are applied, thereby guaranteeing strict compliance with all
political and military understandings, and to make the final decision on
possible violations of those Accords.
2. CCPM will have the authority necessary to approve all rules relating
to its own functioning, particularly its own internal regulations. Its
decisions will be made by consensus between the Government of the
People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA, after hearing the opinion of the
Observers.
Sole paragraph. CCPM does not seek to replace the Government of the
People’s Republic of Angola.
3. In the light of the foregoing, CCPM, with headquarters in Luanda,
should structure itself so as to:
3.1 Guarantee the conditions of peace for the holding of free, fair,
multi-party, and internationally verifiable elections;
3.2 Ensure the fulfillment of all the political understandings resulting
from the Peace Accords relating to the electoral process;
3.3 Supervise the implementation of the Cease-Fire Agreement within
the framework of the Joint Verification and Monitoring
Commission (CMVF) and cooperate with the representatives of
the United Nations;
3.4 Inform itself about, possible threats to the territorial integrity of
the country;
3.5 Discuss, within the sphere of its authority, questions relating to
Angolan exiles.
4. CCPM is to be constituted at the time of the signature of the Cease-
Fire Agreement.
5. CCPM shall be composed of representatives of the Government of the
People’s Republic of Angola and of UMITA as members, and by
representatives of Portugal, the United States and the Soviet Union as
observers. The United Nations may be represented, in the capacity o£
invited guest.
5.1 Members and observers shall be supported by assistants and technical
advisers for the areas assigned to them, namely:
(a) Joint Cease-Fire Verification and Monitoring Commission
(CMVF);
(b) Joint Commission for the Formation of the Angolan Armed Forces
(CCFA);
(c) The Political Commission.
Sole paragraph. In the case of the members of CCPM, the assistants and
technical advisers will have to be Angolans.
6. The meetings of CCPM shall be presided over, alternately in
accordance with the principle of rotation, by the Government of the
People’s Republic of Angola and by UNITA, without prejudice to the
principle of consensus in the decision-making process.
7. It shall be the responsibility of CCPM to draft its internal regulations,
as well as to determine its budget.
8. The mandate of CCPM ends on the date the elected Government takes
office.
III. PRINCIPLES RELATING TO THE ISSUE OF INTERNAL
SECURITY DURING THE PERIOD BETWEEN THE ENTRY INTO
FORCE OF THE CEASE-FIRE AND THE HOLDING OF
ELECTIONS
2.2 Within the sphere of their authority, the monitoring teams shall
have as their specific mandate the duty to visit police facilities, examine
their activities, and investigate possible violations of political rights
committed by the police. These teams may move freely throughout the
entire territory of Angola.
2.3 The monitoring teams are subordinate to CCPM, and must submit
reports of their activities to that body.
2.4 In principle, there will be three monitoring teams for each Angolan
province. CCPM may modify the number of monitoring teams in
accordance with the needs of each province.
Detailed Implementation Timeline
1991
The Bicesse Accords called for the suspension of all hostilities beginning on May 15. This deadline was met, and the government and UNITA leadership formally accepted the cease-fire to begin at midnight on May 15,1 despite occasional allegations of cease-fire violations throughout 1991.
The Bicesse Accords stipulated the establishment of CCPM and CMVF and the initiation of verification operations by May 31. These bodies were established in accordance with the timeline and began meeting in June.2
The Bicesse Accords called for establishing a monitoring system—comprised of monitoring groups subordinate to CMVF—by June 15. While some regional monitoring groups were established, delays obstructed the formation of several others (such as the joint police monitoring group, which was not formed in 1991).3
The Bicesse Accords stipulated the installation of the UN verification system by June 30. In May, the United Nations established the United Nations Angola Verification Mission II (UNAVEM II) to monitor and verify the agreement, cease-fire, and elections.4 The mission authorized a total of 350 military observers, 126 civilian police, 87 international civilians, and 155 local staff.5 By July, 120 UN monitors had arrived in Angola, and head-of-mission General Pericles had begun attending CCPM meetings.6 By October 25, all authorized positions were filled.7 UN staff actively monitored compliance with the agreement, particularly by counting troops and weapons in assembly areas and providing logistical support for implementation procedures.8
The Bicesse Accord stipulated that armed forces should move to assembly areas by August 1. By the end of 1991, approximately 65% of troops had assembled.9
1 “Angolan cease-fire date reportedly accepted by government and UNITA,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, May 17, 1991.
2 “Angola first meeting of joint commission; legal basis to be established,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, June 20, 1991.
3 “UNAVEM II Background,” United Nations, 2000.
4 “United Nations Angola Verification Mission II,” United Nations, 2000.
5 “United Nations Angola Verification Mission II,” United Nations, 2000.
6 “Angola Luanda meeting of joint commission,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, July 18, 1991.
7 “United Nations Angola Verification Mission II,” United Nations, 2000.
8 “UNAVEM II Background,” United Nations, 2000.
9 “Round-up: 1991 –year of peace for Angola,” Xinhua General News Service, December 19, 1991.
1992
The Bicesse Accords called for general elections to be held from September 1-November 30, 1992. The President of Angola, Jose Eduardo dos Santos, announced on April 2 that general elections would take place on September 29 and 30.1 UNITA leader Jonas Savimbi formally accepted this timeline on April 5, 1992.2 The date was formalized through a presidential decree issued on July 17.3 The general elections for presidential and parliamentary representatives began, as scheduled, on September 29, 1992,4 and continued on September 30.5 Since no presidential candidate earned a simple majority of votes, Electoral Law required a run-off election within 30 days of the election results announcement.6 However, no run-off election took place in 1992.
The Bicesse Accords stipulated that the processes of forming the Angolan Armed Forces must conclude on the date of general elections. The UN Secretary-General reported that as of September 2, only 19% of the Angolan Armed Forces were assembled.7 Nonetheless, on September 27, both UNITA and the Angolan government formally dissolved their armies and established the Angolan Armed Forces. However, the demobilization of troops and formation of the Angolan Armed Forces remained incomplete.8 However, UNITA withdrew from the Angolan Armed Forces on October 5, 1992.9
1 “Angola sets general election data,” Xinhua General News Service, April 2, 1992.
2 “UNITA accepts Angola’s general election timetable,” Xinhua General News Service, April 5, 1992.
3 “Angola formalizes date for elections,” Xinhua General News Service, July 17, 1992.
4 “General elections kick off in Angola,” Xinhua General News Service, September 29, 1992.
5 “Angola’s first ever multiparty elections enters second day,” United Press International, September 30, 1992.
6 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
7 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, September 9, 1992.
8 “Further Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM II),” UN Security Council, November 25, 1992.
9 “UNITA announces withdrawal from integrated army,” Xinhua General News Service, October 6, 1992.
V. Timetable of the Cease-Fire
1 May- Initialing of the Accord
By midnight of 15 May- Notification to be sent to the Portuguese Government of acceptance by the parties.
Midnight 15 May- “de facto” suspension of hostilities.
29-31 May
a) Signature and entry into force of the cease-fire
agreement;
b) CCPM and CMVF take office;
c) The monitoring groups begin to travel to the predetermined
sites;
d) Beginning of the United Nations verification operations
15 June
a) Completion of the establishment of the monitoring
groups at the pre-determined sites, and notification to
CMVF that they are operational;
b) The monitoring system begins to function
By 30 June
Completion of installation of the United Nations verification system.
1 July
Forces begin to move to the areas of assembly. The verification and monitoring groups must be notified in advance of each movement of forces.
1 August
Completion of the movement of forces to the areas of assembly.
On the date of the elections
Completion of the cease-fire process and abolition of the verification and monitoring bodies.
Annex II
Sequence of task in the different phases of the cease-fire
Preliminary phase (1-15 May 1991)
1 May 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
Initialling of Cease-Fire Agreement
Cessation of hostile propaganda
Monitoring mechanism
Government/UNITA
United Nations
Formation process
Angolan Armed Forces
Observations
Appeal to the parties to exercise maximum restraint in their actions
15 May 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
Last day to inform Portuguese Government which country(ies) will provide assistance in formation of Armed Forces
Last day to notify Portuguese Government of acceptance of Cease- Fire Agreement
De facto suspension of hostilities (12 midnight, 15 May 1991)
Monitoring mechanism
Government/UNITA
United Nations
Formation process
Angolan Armed Forces
Observations
Phase I (15-29/31 May 1991)
15 May 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
- Hostilities suspended since 12 midnight, 15 May
- Commanders at all levels ensure that their troops stay in their positions and await orders
- Offensive operations such as the following will not be conducted:
- Military land or air reconnaissance and combat patrols within a 10-kilometre radius of their military bases
- Overflight by combat aircraft or armed helicopters
- Military operations against military, economic or civilian targets
- Cessation of all military maneuvers with the aim of placing weapons capable of endangering the security of towns and the economic, administrative and military infrastructures
- Cessation of all acts of violence against the civilian population
- Occupation of new positions
Monitoring mechanism
- Government/UNITA
- United Nations
Formation process
- Angolan Armed Forces
15-31 May 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
29-31 May 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
- Last day for the Government, and UNITA to inform their forces about the areas of assembly
Monitoring mechanism
- Government/UNITA
Prior to signature of agreement, members of CMVF and the monitoring groups will be appointed
- United Nations
Formation process
- Angolan Armed Forces
Prior to signature of Cease-Fire Agreement, members of CCFA will be appointed
Observations
29-31 May 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
- Signature and immediate entry into force of Cease-Fire Agreement
Monitoring mechanism
- Government/UHITA
- United Nations
Formation process
- Angolan Armed Forces
Observations
- Cessation of supplies of lethal material to the Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
Phase II (31 May-30 June 1991)
(Implementation of the monitoring system)
31 May 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
- Beginning of exchange of military information within the framework of
CMVF
- Beginning of process of releasing all civilian and military prisoners taken as a result of the conflict
Monitoring mechanism
- Government/UNITA
Immediately after signature and entry into force of accord, CCPM and CMVF take office
The monitoring groups begin to travel to the predetermined sites
- United Nations
- Beginning of verification groups verification operations
Formation process
- Angolan Armed Forces
Immediately after signature and entry into force of the ceasefire, CCFA takes office
Preparation of the plan for formation of the Angolan Armed Forces, within the framework of CCFA
Observations
15 June 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
Monitoring mechanism
- Government/UNITA
The monitoring groups conclude their establishment at the predetermined sites and notify CMVF that they are operational
- United Nations
Formation process
- Angolan Armed Forces
Observations
30 June 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
- Last day for the parties to communicate to the verification groups and the monitoring groups the timetable and schedules for movement of their forces to the areas of assembly and border posts
Monitoring mechanism
- Government/UNITA
- United Nations
Completion of the installation of the United Nations verification system
Formation process
- Angolan Armed Forces
Observations
Phase III (1 July- 1 August 1992)
(Transfer of forces)
1 July 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
- Beginning of movement of forces to areas of assembly and border posts
- Beginning of border control operations at border posts
Monitoring mechanism
- Government/UNITA
Beginning of monitoring operations by the monitoring groups
- United Nations
Formation process
- Angolan Armed Forces
Observations
1 July – 1 August 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
Monitoring mechanism
- Government/UNITA
The monitoring groups inform CMVF of movement to each area of assembly and border posts
- United Nations
Formation process
- Angolan Armed Forces
Observations
1 August 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
- Last day to conclude movement of forces to areas of assembly and border posts
Monitoring mechanism
- Government/UNITA
- United Nations
Formation process
- Angolan Armed Forces
Observations
Phase IV (1 August 1991-date of elections)
(Verification and monitoring of agreement)
1 August 1991
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
- The parties report to the monitoring bodies regarding personnel to be demobilized
- The parties report to the monitoring bodies regarding material to be delivered to storehouses
- Replacement of FAPLA and FALA platoons at border posts by forces to be determined by the parties
Monitoring mechanism
- Government/UNITA
- United Nations
Formation process
- Angolan Armed Forces
The parties report to the monitoring bodies regarding the personnel and material from each area of assembly intended for the process of formation of the Angolan Armed Forces as a result of general directives from CCFA Movement of personnel and material from areas of assembly to centres for formation of the Angolan Armed Forces being monitored by the monitoring groups
Observations
Date of general elections
Government of the People’s Republic of Angola and UNITA
- Last day for abolition of FAPLA and FALA
Monitoring mechanism
- Government/UNITA
Last day for closing the areas of assembly
Abolition of bodies for verification and monitoring of the cease-fire
- United Nations
Formation process
- Angolan Armed Forces
Last day for concluding the process of formation of the Angolan Armed Forces
- Abolition of CCFA
Observations
Please always cite: “Expanding the Peace Accords Matrix Implementation Dataset: Partial peace agreements in the Comprehensive Peace Agreement negotiation and implementation process, 1989–2021.” Madhav Joshi, Matthew Hauenstein, and Jason Quinn. Journal of Peace Research (2025).