Senator Edwin Sifuna arrived in Ethiopia after being barred from entering Angola, where over 20 leaders are detained. He condemned the treatment by Angolan authorities and emphasized the need for their immediate release. Sifuna’s efforts to attend a UNITA event were thwarted despite a formal visa request submitted by UNITA’s office.
Senator Edwin Sifuna of Nairobi arrived safely in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, after being denied entry into Angola. He traveled to Central Africa upon receiving an invitation from UNITA, Angola’s main opposition party. On March 13, Sifuna expressed his gratitude for the support of the Kenyan diplomatic mission in Luanda while condemning the Angolan authorities for detaining over 20 leaders from various countries.
Among those detained are nine individuals from Tanzania, five from Botswana, and three from Lesotho. Additional detainees include two people from Malawi, one from eSwatini, one German national, two from the UK, and two South African leaders. Sifuna stressed the need for their immediate release, expressing disappointment in Angola’s treatment of visitors, especially as it holds the chairmanship of the African Union.
Early on the same day, Senator Sifuna announced his entry denial in a message. He, along with a group of politicians and activists from Uganda, Kenya, Ukraine, and Ethiopia, was expected at Luanda’s 4 de Fevereiro International Airport. Their invitation stemmed from UNITA President Adalberto Costa Júnior. However, upon their arrival, Angolan authorities blocked their entry.
Sifuna also shared that a formal request for border visas had been submitted to Angola’s Migration and Foreign Services by UNITA’s presidential office. This submission contained a letter from Chief of Staff Lucas Tomás Nhanyula, which assured the Angolan government of UNITA’s responsibility for their visitors’ stay in the country. The letter indicated their planned entry into Angola was scheduled for March 13, 2025.
Senator Edwin Sifuna’s attempt to enter Angola highlights significant issues surrounding the detention of international leaders. His denunciation of Angolan authorities underscores concerns over diplomatic treatment and human rights. The request submitted by UNITA reflects an organized effort to facilitate international dialogue despite barriers. Urgent calls for the release of detained leaders articulate a need for accountability and respect for visitors in African nations.
Original Source: nairobileo.co.ke
