On March 13, 2025, Zanzibar’s VP Othman was detained at Luanda airport, raising concerns about African Union unity. He labeled the Angolan authorities’ actions as an “embarrassing diplomatic act.” Othman chose to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum to reflect on this incident, which he viewed as undermining democracy and diplomacy in Africa.
On March 13, 2025, a diplomatic incident at Luanda’s Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport raised concerns about unity within the African Union. Zanzibar’s First Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, along with other prominent leaders, was detained for nearly eight hours without explanation. Othman was attending the Africa Democracy Forum aimed at discussing governance across Africa when Angolan authorities intervened, leading to widespread condemnation of their actions as an “embarrassing diplomatic act.”
Othman criticized the Angolan authorities, emphasizing that their actions undermined the African Union’s core values, particularly when Angola’s President serves as the current AU Chairperson. He stated, “The actions taken against us have tarnished the spirit of the African Union, especially when the President of Angola is the current Chairperson of the AU.” Othman called for collective condemnation from all African nations.
Despite his discontent, Othman expressed no animosity toward the Angolan people, with whom Tanzania has a historic relationship. However, he questioned the diplomatic standards of African leadership following this incident. Subsequently, he chose to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum, prioritizing reflection on the incident which he characterized as both a diplomatic and democratic assault.
His decision to refrain from participating sent a significant message about the need for respect and solidarity within African leadership. The protracted nature of the detainment left Othman and the other leaders exhausted and has sparked a wave of discontent throughout Africa, highlighting the necessity for higher standards among African nations.
The diplomatic standoff involving Zanzibar’s First Vice President and other leaders at Luanda airport has provoked serious discussions about African unity and the conduct of member nations within the African Union. Othman’s condemnation of the Angolan authorities’ actions signifies a call for higher diplomatic standards and respect amongst African leaders to uphold the principles of cooperation and brotherhood.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
