LUANDA, Shawwal 02, 1437, July 07, 2016, SPA -- Angolan President Jose Eduardo dos Santos is the only candidate for the presidency of the ruling MPLA, the party's central committee has said, according to state media, Reuters reported. The move ends speculation that Dos Santos, who has ruled the oil-rich southern African nation since 1979, might not make himself available. Dos Santos said in March he intended to step down in 2018 but gave no reason for his decision and did not name a preferred successor. The MPLA's convention where its top leader is anointed will be held in August and the general elections are due in late 2017. The leader of the winning party will then become president. --SPA 01:26 LOCAL TIME 22:26 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/w