Venâncio Mondlane criticized his entry denial into Angola as a “public shame” and a violation of legal norms, proposing legal action against the Angolan state. He, along with international figures, was detained at Luanda airport without explanation. Despite their eventual admission, the incident raises serious concerns about Angola’s diplomatic standing and protocols. Furthermore, Mondlane faces domestic legal challenges related to election protests.
Mozambican politician Venâncio Mondlane criticized his recent denial of entry into Angola, calling it a “public shame” and a legal violation. During a live broadcast from Maputo, he stated that the Angolan government’s actions reflect negatively on the nation’s reputation on the African continent and globally.
Mondlane, alongside international dignitaries including former Presidents Ian Khama of Botswana and Andrés Pastrana of Colombia, faced prolonged detention at the 4 de Fevereiro International Airport. The delegation traveled to Angola for a conference on democracy’s future, but authorities provided no explanation for their entry refusal.
Mondlane asserted that there were no legal procedures to justify their deportation, emphasizing that such irregularities undermine the rule of law. He mentioned potential legal actions against Angola for violating Southern African Development Community (SADC) and African Union protocols. “March 13 should be considered the day of public shame in Angola,” he remarked, attributing the directive for the detention to the Angolan Ministry of the Interior.
The Mozambican politician urged UNITA and other organizations to pursue legal recourse against the Angolan state. Meanwhile, Mondlane is also facing charges in Mozambique related to inciting violence during recent election protests, complicating his political scenario. He recently communicated with the Public Prosecutor’s Office regarding his trip to Angola.
Despite their initial denial, Khama and Pastrana were eventually permitted into Angola; however, Khama chose to leave, citing the experience as humiliating. Reflecting on his last visit, where he was invited by Angolan President João Lourenço, Khama expressed his dismay at the unexpected treatment during this trip. The conference was set to be held in Benguela from Friday to Sunday, organized alongside the Konrad Adenauer Foundation and the World Liberty Congress.
In summary, Venâncio Mondlane’s denial of entry into Angola has sparked significant controversy, raising legal and diplomatic concerns regarding the treatment of international guests. His condemnation of the incident as a serious breach of protocol underscores the tensions between Mozambique and Angola, while also highlighting the challenges Mondlane faces domestically with the ongoing accusations against him. The situation calls into question the implications for international relations in Southern Africa and the integrity of regional governance.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
