The Platform for African Democrats (PAD) condemned Angola’s government for obstructing a democracy meeting in Benguela, which resulted in visa denials and detentions of attendees from several African nations. Despite significant disruptions, PAD remains committed to advocating for democracy and calls for a public apology from President Lourenço. This incident highlights broader democratic struggles in Africa.
The Platform for African Democrats (PAD) has criticized the Angolan government’s suppression of a democracy meeting in Benguela. This major event aimed to gather former African heads of state and democracy advocates, yet it faced significant obstruction. Authorities denied visas, detained, and deported various delegates from countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, and South Sudan, severely hindering participation.
Numerous individuals, including five former political leaders, were denied entry to the meeting. Some attendees, despite valid visas, were detained for hours at the airport and missed their flights. Although the Angolan officials promised assistance to transport them to the conference, logistical failures resulted in further complications and delays.
PAD condemned the Angolan regime’s actions, stating that they illustrate a reluctance to engage in discussions about democracy. They called on President João Lourenço to formally apologize to the affected individuals and criticized the government’s unwillingness to support democratic ideals among African nations.
Established in 2023, PAD focuses on enhancing political parties across Africa by sharing governance best practices. The Benguela event was intended to continue prior discussions on democracy that occurred at earlier PAD summits in Poland and South Africa, amidst rising authoritarianism on the continent.
Notable attendees included former leaders such as Ian Khama, Moeketsi Majoro, and Andrés Pastrana Arango. Despite the Angolan government’s interference, PAD resolved to strengthen their commitment to democracy. They emphasized that the struggle for democracy in Angola reflects a broader fight across Africa, urging solidarity among democrats on the continent.
PAD’s condemnation of Angola’s actions highlights a key conflict between authoritarian measures and the pursuit of democratic ideals in Africa. The detainment of delegates and the disruption of the Benguela meeting illustrate the region’s challenges in fostering open discussions about governance. Despite these setbacks, PAD’s determination underscores an ongoing commitment to advocating for democratic reforms across the continent, encouraging unity among African democracy supporters.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
