Kenya’s Senator Edwin Sifuna and other African leaders were denied entry into Angola despite an invitation from UNITA, raising concerns about immigration policies. Prominent figures from several countries traveled for a planned meeting but were blocked by immigration authorities. The Angolan government has not yet clarified the situation.
Kenya’s Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, along with several prominent African political leaders, was denied entry into Angola on Thursday despite an invitation from the opposition party, UNITA. Among those affected were Tanzania’s opposition leader Tundu Lissu and other influential politicians, who were scheduled for a two-day meeting in Luanda but faced immigration restrictions upon arrival.
Sifuna expressed frustration, stating, “UNITA President Adalberto Costa invited us to Angola. The government has denied us entry!” Lissu also condemned the actions of Angolan authorities, deeming them unacceptable and highlighting that over twenty senior leaders from Southern Africa were similarly barred from entry.
The delegation comprised high-ranking officials, including a Tanzanian First Vice President and former leaders from Botswana and Lesotho, as well as delegates from various countries such as Kenya, Sudan, South Africa, and the USA.
Lissu pointed out Tanzania’s historical role in supporting Angola’s independence and noted that Tanzanians don’t require visas to enter Angola under SADC regional agreements. He called the denial of entry “totally unacceptable,” recalling Tanzania’s past support during Angola’s fight against apartheid.
Prior to their trip, a formal visa request was submitted to Angolan authorities, with assurances from UNITA’s Office Director, Lucas Tomas Kanutula, that the party would oversee the delegates’ stay. Nonetheless, the Angolan government has not yet provided an official explanation for their denial of entry.
The denial of entry to Senator Sifuna and other African leaders into Angola has raised concerns regarding diplomatic relations and immigration practices. Despite prior assurances from UNITA, the Angolan government’s unexplained actions thwarted the planned meeting. This incident highlights the complexities of regional politics and the lingering impacts of historical alliances in Southern Africa.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
