Tanzanian opposition leaders from ACT-Wazalendo faced denial of entry into Angola while traveling to a democracy conference. Most were swiftly returned to Tanzania, while some were stranded overnight as officials arranged their return. The incident reflects greater issues of political repression and highlights the necessity for united opposition across Africa.
In a recent account, Tanzanian opposition leaders from the ACT-Wazalendo party described their harrowing experience at Luanda International Airport, where they were barred from entering Angola. The delegation, which included party leader Dorothy Semu, had to board the same Ethiopian Airlines flight that brought them to Angola, returning to Tanzania just two and a half hours later.
Not all members were as fortunate; some, including Zanzibar’s First Vice President Othman Masoud Othman and Chadema Chairman Tundu Lissu, were compelled to remain in Luanda overnight. Authorities are now undertaking efforts to facilitate their return to Tanzania.
The opposition leaders were traveling to Benguela for the Platform for African Democracy (PAD) conference. Among other prominent figures denied entry were Mozambique’s Venâncio Mondlane and former Botswana President Ian Khama.
A letter sent to Angola’s Director of Migration and Foreign Services identified various individuals barred from entry, including Ugandan and Kenyan politicians, as well as individuals from Ukraine and Ethiopia. Notably, Tanzanian officials did not appear on this list.
Mr. Othman publicly condemned the actions against the delegation, appealing for the adherence to principles of brotherhood among African nations. He expressed, “Despite being upset by the actions taken against us, I bear no grudge against the people of this great nation,” emphasizing his respect for Angola’s historical ties with Tanzania.
In her reflection, Ms. Semu articulated that the Angolan government’s move seemed aimed at disrupting the PAD conference, fearing the strengthening of oppositional forces like the local political party Unita, which significantly boosted its vote share in the 2022 elections. She remarked, “Unita’s vote share increased from 27 percent to 44 percent in the 2022 elections, and the government is alarmed by their growing influence.”
Moreover, she criticized the Angolan system’s failure to provide justifications for their denial of entry, indicating that officials were likely executing orders from higher authorities.
Interestingly, despite not being stamped with a denial, Ms. Semu clarified that no visa was required for entry due to her SADC country citizenship. She highlighted that many African opposition parties are facing similar obstacles and underlined the importance of collaboration among them for political reform.
“This incident has given us new resolve to continue our efforts, despite the challenges, in the fight for democracy,” she concluded, noting the involvement of Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Zambia in the situation. Lt. Gen Mkingule reported that some leaders who were initially denied entry were later accommodated by the Angolan government before their return.
The denial of entry faced by Tanzania’s opposition leaders highlights the ongoing challenges that political movements encounter across Africa. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for collaboration among political opposition groups, advocating for democracy and the principles of unity among nations. It underscores the significance of addressing governmental actions that suppress dialogue and democratic discourse within the continent.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
