The Platform for African Democrats held its third meeting in Angola, facing significant resistance from the government, including visa refusals and detentions of delegates. The event aimed to discuss democracy and accountability in Africa, highlighting ongoing struggles against authoritarian regimes. Participants condemned the Angolan administration’s actions and called for a public apology, reinforcing solidarity among African democrats. The experience emphasized the persistent fight for democratic values across the continent.
The Platform for African Democrats (PAD) convened its third annual meeting in Benguela, Angola, on 14 March 2025, amidst significant opposition from the Angolan government, which attempted to obstruct the event. Founded in 2023, the PAD aims to bolster democracy in Africa by facilitating the exchange of best practices among political parties. The selection of Angola as the venue was strategic, given its status as the current Chair of the African Union, which held a concurrent summit in Addis Ababa.
The meeting, themed “The Future of Democracy in Africa,” was a continuation of discussions started at earlier summits in Gdansk and Cape Town, where participants focused on enhancing democratic accountability and combating authoritarianism. Notable attendees included former leaders such as Ian Khama and Moeketsi Majoro. However, the Angolan government took severe measures against several delegates: many were denied visas, detained at the airport, or deported, showcasing the regime’s hostility towards democratic discourse.
Delegates from various countries were not only barred from entering but those who were detained experienced long hold-ups without adequate explanation. The government subsequently offered transportation the following day, but logistical failures rendered this promise unfulfilled. This orchestrated response illustrates a deliberate effort to suppress democratic dialogue and highlight the contradictions within a regime that claims to uphold democratic values.
The actions of President João Lourenço’s administration have revealed a troubling reality; they are prepared to demean both past and present leaders and obstruct meaningful discussions about democracy. The participants united in condemnation of these actions, calling for a public apology from the Angolan President for the disruptions caused. Despite these challenges, the experience reinforced solidarity among African democrats, who recognized the persistent struggle against authoritarianism.
The resistance demonstrated at this meeting signifies a broader commitment to democracy across Africa, even in the face of opposition. It calls for renewed engagement and unity among democratic movements, suggesting that the fight for democracy in Angola is intricately linked to the broader African struggle for self-determination and accountability.
In conclusion, the events surrounding the PAD meeting in Angola underscore the ongoing struggle for democracy in Africa. The Angolan government’s suppression of the gathering serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by democratic movements. However, the resilience and unity exhibited by attendees reflect a committed effort to advocate for democratic values across the continent. Ultimately, this experience strengthens the resolve to promote accountability and openness in governance, essential for Africa’s future.
Original Source: www.thebrenthurstfoundation.org
