ANALYSTS have said the arrest of two Russian nationals in Angola on charges of attempting to destabilise Luanda’s democracy could signal a broader pattern of covert operations targeting the continent’s political systems. Angolan authorities alleged that Lev Lakshtanov (64) and Igor Racthin (38) were involved in “criminal association, falsification of documents, terrorism and terrorist financing” to infiltrate and manipulate political discourse in that country. The individuals are believed to be linked to a covert Russian network known as Africa Politology, which connects private consultants, operatives and media fronts with the Kremlin’s broader geopolitical agenda.
According to a detailed Briefing Pack compiled by intelligence sources, Lakshtanov and Racthin entered Angola under the guise of tourists. They then posed as journalists, reportedly engaging with top opposition figures, including Buka Tanda, the leader of the opposition party UNITA. Tanda allegedly facilitated interviews and allowed the pair to conduct opinion polls on Russia’s image in Angola.
Authorities claim these activities were part of a larger propaganda and influence operation. Bulawayo-based academic and opposition figure, Samukele Hadebe, said Russia was not new in Africa in general and particularly in Angola. “Of course, talk has been on Cubans yet Russia, then USSR, was the main backer and funder of both Angola and Cuba, and indeed the liberation forces of SWAPO [South West Africa People’s Organisation] in Namibia and ANC [African National Congress] in South Africa,” Hadebe said.
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“But lots changed with the collapse of the USSR, but obviously Russia’s national interests did not change. “Besides, Russians either through military or intelligence or diplomatic relations have had presence in Angola.
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