Several African leaders, including Zanzibar’s VP, were denied entry into Angola for a political meeting. Currently detained at Luanda Airport with confiscated passports, they were part of a larger delegation invited by UNITA. Condemnation from political figures and parties in response highlights the violation of diplomatic norms. Calls for accountability and the return of confiscated property echo the importance of maintaining respectful international relations.
A group of prominent African leaders, including Zanzibar’s Vice President Othman Masoud Sharif, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, and opposition politicians Bobi Wine and Tundu Lissu, were denied entry into Angola. They are currently being held at Luanda Airport where their passports have been confiscated. This group is part of a larger delegation of over 40 leaders traveling for a political meeting in Luanda, extended by the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA).
Despite the official invitation from UNITA to participate in a two-day meeting, Angolan authorities prevented their entry without explanation. The leaders are reportedly to be returned to their home countries via Tanzania, Kenya, and Ethiopia later. Among the expected attendees were notable figures like former Presidents Ian Khama of Botswana and Andrés Pastrana Arango of Colombia.
On social media, Sifuna highlighted the contradiction of being invited but then barred from entry, emphasizing the nature of diplomatic invitations. He shared an official request from UNITA’s President for border visas for the affected individuals, asserting responsibility for their stay in Angola.
Tundu Lissu condemned the immigration restrictions, pointing out the significant representation within the group that included former heads of state and various political leaders from multiple countries. He reiterated historical ties between Tanzania and Angola, criticizing Angolan authorities for this treatment of Tanzanian leaders.
The ACT-Wazalendo party has condemned the actions, claiming that the detainment and passport confiscation violated diplomatic norms. They are demanding an explanation from Angolan authorities and have urged the Tanzanian government to act promptly in seeking justice. The party insists on the immediate return of passports and urges for recognition of diplomatic principles in this matter.
This incident raises significant concerns about diplomatic relations in Africa and calls for accountability from the Angolan government regarding the treatment of foreign leaders and proper adherence to international protocols all while highlighting the deep-rooted connections among African nations.
In conclusion, the prevention of entry for prominent political leaders into Angola raises questions about diplomatic conduct and respect for international relations. The leaders’ detention and passport confiscation at Luanda Airport, without clear justification, has prompted condemnation from various parties. Calls for accountability underline the necessity for Angola to uphold diplomatic protocols and return the detaining leaders’ passports, facilitating their participation in the scheduled meeting. Such incidents could affect regional cooperation and relationships among African nations if not addressed appropriately.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
