Zanzibar’s Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, condemned the treatment he and other leaders received at Luanda airport, labeling it an “embarrassing diplomatic act.” This incident raises questions about the unity of the African Union, especially given Angola’s AU Chairmanship. Othman chose to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum, citing the need for reflection on the implications for diplomacy and democracy in Africa.
On March 13, 2025, a diplomatic incident at Luanda’s Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport raised significant issues regarding cooperation within the African Union. Zanzibar’s First Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, expressed his strong disapproval after he and other prominent African leaders were detained for nearly eight hours while traveling to the Africa Democracy Forum, an important conference on governance and democracy across the continent.
Othman, who was with Tanzania’s Ambassador to Zambia, Lieutenant General Matthew Edward Mkingule, and various political figures, condemned the actions of the Angolan authorities. He described their treatment as an “embarrassing diplomatic act” and stated that such behavior undermines the foundational values of the African Union, especially given that the Angolan President serves as the current AU Chairperson.
In his statement, Othman emphasized that the way they were treated “tarnished the spirit of the African Union,” calling for a strong condemnation from all Africans and nations supporting the principles of unity established by the continent’s founding leaders. While he expressed deep frustration, he clarified that he bears no grudge against the Angolan people, with whom Tanzania shares a rich history of relations.
The incident prompted Othman to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum and return to Tanzania for reflection. He perceives the treatment as an assault on both diplomacy and democracy, asserting, “I believe I need time for deep reflection and to assess what was done to us.” The events at the airport have stirred widespread indignation across Africa, highlighting the necessity for a reassessment of diplomatic standards and greater respect among African leadership.
The detainment incident involving Zanzibar’s Vice President and other leaders at Luanda’s airport highlights serious diplomatic shortcomings within Africa. Othman’s condemnation of Angolan authorities underscores a need for improved respect and solidarity in leadership, especially within the African Union framework. His decision to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum signals a call for reflection and higher standards among African leaders.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
