The ACT-Wazalendo opposition and ruling CCM in Tanzania are trading accusations over the blocked entry of opposition leaders to Angola. Othman, from ACT-Wazalendo, blames CCM leaders for misrepresenting the situation, while CCM leaders defend their actions, suggesting procedural violations on the part of the opposition. ACT-Wazalendo demands government accountability and transparency regarding the incident.
The ACT-Wazalendo opposition party in Tanzania and the ruling CCM are engaged in a blame game over the blockage of opposition leaders’ entry into Angola. Masoud Othman, ACT-Wazalendo Chairman, claims that CCM leaders are misrepresenting facts surrounding the incident at Quatro de Fevereiro Airport, where he and other leaders were stopped from attending the African Democracy Forum (PAD).
Othman specifically called out CCM’s Vice-Chairman, Stephen Wasira, and Secretary Hamis Mbetto, urging the Tanzanian government to take action against them for allegedly tarnishing the government’s image. The blockage of Othman’s convoy was condemned by ACT-Wazalendo, which asked for a public endorsement from the government against such actions.
Wasira responded by shifting the blame back to the opposition, questioning their expectation for governmental intervention at a foreign airport managed by Angolan authorities. Mbetto supported Wasira’s view, alleging that Othman failed to follow the necessary procedures for entering Angola, leading to his group’s blockade.
In reaction, Othman asserted that all travel protocols were adhered to, including obtaining permission from the President of Zanzibar and ensuring that the Foreign Affairs Ministry was informed. He stated, “If there was a mistake, it lies with Angola, as they should have communicated with us upon our arrival.”
Othman rejected claims of Tanzanian government involvement in the blockage, expressing confusion over how the government would benefit from obstructing events in Angola.
Mbetto, defending himself against accusations, emphasized that he had not committed any wrongdoing, stating, “What have we done wrong?” He also highlighted that Masoud’s convoy was stopped unlike other opposition leaders who have traveled abroad without restrictions.
Mbetto accused Othman of previously inciting unrest against the government and questioned why he should be treated differently. Meanwhile, ACT-Wazalendo leader Dorothy Semu called for transparency from the government regarding the blockage and suggested that the Tanzanian ambassador to Angola be summoned for clarification.
Semu voiced concerns over Angola’s President leading the African Union, suggesting he may not adequately represent democratic principles. She remarked, “The AU needs to appoint someone who demonstrates leadership in promoting democracy.”
The PAD Forum, where the blockage occurred, highlights the importance of political discussions in Africa, with previous meetings held in Poland and South Africa. Semu concluded that the forum serves as a crucial platform for determining Africa’s political future.
The recent incident involving the blockage of opposition leaders from entering Angola has sparked a significant blame exchange between Tanzania’s ACT-Wazalendo party and the ruling CCM. Allegations from both sides highlight concerns over misrepresentation of the circumstances, adherence to travel procedures, and the broader implications for Tanzania’s international relations, particularly with Angola during a critical political forum.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
