Tanzania’s ACT-Wazalendo opposition leaders were denied entry into Angola while en route to the PAD conference. Most were deported back to Tanzania within hours, while a few remained overnight. The incident drew criticism and highlights ongoing challenges faced by opposition parties in Africa, emphasizing the need for unity in the struggle for democracy.
Tanzania’s opposition leaders from the ACT-Wazalendo party recounted their troubling experience at Luanda International Airport, where they were denied entry into Angola. This incident occurred as they attempted to attend the Platform for African Democracy (PAD) conference in Benguela, 421 kilometers away. Most members of the delegation, including party leader Dorothy Semu, returned to Tanzania on the same Ethiopian Airlines flight just two and a half hours after arrival, whereas a few members, including Othman Masoud Othman and Tundu Lissu, had to remain overnight in Luanda awaiting arrangements for their return.
The denial of entry affected several notable political figures from various countries, including Venâncio Mondlane from Mozambique and former President Ian Khama of Botswana. A letter outlining those barred from entry also included Ugandans, Kenyans, Ukrainians, and an Ethiopian, although Tanzanian officials were not listed among those denied access. In a public statement, Othman condemned this act, urging the African community to adhere to the brotherhood principles established by the continent’s founders.
Despite feeling aggrieved, Othman expressed no ill will towards the Angolan populace, affirming Tanzania’s long-standing historical relationship with the country. He announced his withdrawal from the Africa Democracy Forum, stressing the need for reflection on the implications of this event for African diplomacy and democracy. Semu indicated that the actions of the Angolan government appeared to be a tactical measure to undermine the PAD conference, fearing that it would bolster opposition movements such as Angola’s Unita.
Semu further explained that Unita’s electoral success has raised concerns among ruling powers, contributing to their willingness to suppress opposing voices. Rather than facilitating a discussion on democratic improvement, the government allegedly obstructed the forum. Additionally, airport officials offered no substantive rationale for the decision to deny entry, implying adherence to directives from higher authorities. Although Semu’s passport lacked a stamp indicating an entry refusal, she noted that, as a citizen of a Southern African Development Community member nation, no visa was required for entry.
This incident highlights the broader struggles faced by opposition groups across Africa, reiterating the necessity for a unified front in pursuit of political reform. “This incident has given us new resolve to continue our efforts, despite the challenges, in the fight for democracy,” Semu expressed. Additionally, she reported that several members of the diplomatic corps, including Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Zambia, were also affected by the incident. Lt. Gen. Mkingule later confirmed that some denied entry were ultimately permitted into Angola and accommodated in luxury hotels, with plans for their return home imminent.
In conclusion, Tanzania’s opposition leaders faced a significant setback when denied entry into Angola, raising important concerns regarding regional political dynamics and the suppression of dissenting voices. The incident shines a light on the ongoing challenges that opposition parties face across Africa and underscores the importance of solidarity in advancing democratic principles. This ordeal has intensified their commitment to promoting democracy, despite the obstacles ahead.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
