The ACT-Wazalendo and CCM have exchanged allegations regarding the blockage of opposition leaders from entering Angola for the African Democracy Forum. Masoud Othman accused CCM leaders of misrepresentation, while CCM officials denied government involvement. The incident raises questions about the adequacy of Angolan political procedures and highlights the increasing tensions between Tanzania’s political parties. ACT-Wazalendo demands clarity from the Tanzanian government regarding the incident.
In recent developments, the Tanzanian opposition party ACT-Wazalendo and the ruling Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) have exchanged accusations regarding the blockage of opposition leaders from entering Angola. ACT-Wazalendo Chairman Masoud Othman criticized CCM leaders, namely Stephen Wasira and Hamis Mbetto, alleging that they misrepresented the circumstances surrounding the incident. Othman and several leaders intended to participate in the African Democracy Forum (PAD) when they were stopped at Quatro de Fevereiro Airport.
The blockage was condemned by ACT-Wazalendo, which urged the Tanzanian government to acknowledge the situation publicly. In a response, CCM Vice-Chairman Wasira stated that opposition members should not blame the Tanzanian government, asserting that the airport is managed locally in Angola. He queried whether the leaders would hold the Tanzanian government accountable if they were treated unfairly by Angolan authorities.
Mbetto supported Wasira’s statement, contending that Othman and his delegation failed to adhere to proper travel protocols required for entering Angola. In defense, Othman refuted these claims, emphasizing that they followed all necessary procedures, including obtaining permissions from relevant authorities, prior to their journey.
Othman expressed disbelief that the Tanzanian government would have an interest in their blockage, arguing that the issue stemmed from the Angolan context rather than Tanzanian politics. In response to Othman’s allegations, Mbetto argued that Othman should embrace political realities and highlighted that many other opposition leaders traveled without such hindrances.
Mbetto further suggested that Othman had previously engaged in divisive behavior, including insults directed towards President Mwinyi, without facing repercussions. Within this context, ACT-Wazalendo’s Dorothy Semu raised concerns about the lack of communication from the government regarding the reasons for the blockage and called for clarity from Tanzanian officials.
Moreover, Semu questioned the capacity of Angola’s President, currently serving as the Chair of the African Union (AU), to uphold democratic values following this incident. She advocated for the appointment of leadership that exemplifies commitment to promoting democracy within the AU following the PAD Forum’s recent meeting in Angola, emphasizing its significance for Africa’s political landscape.
The ongoing exchange of accusations between the ACT-Wazalendo party and CCM highlights tensions surrounding Tanzania’s political scene and its relations with Angola. Masoud Othman’s claims against CCM leaders emphasize concerns regarding procedural violations in international travel, while CCM leaders defend their position by questioning the actions and credibility of the opposition. The incident has sparked demands for upcoming accountability and has prompted discussions on the suitability of current AU leadership in promoting democratic values. Overall, this situation underscores the importance of communication and collaboration within Africa’s politics.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
