Angola Bars Entry to Notable African Opposition Leaders, Sparks Outrage
Angola has denied entry to several opposition leaders invited to a democracy summit, sparking criticism of its authoritarian practices. Among those barred were Tanzanian leader Tundu Lissu, Mozambique’s Venancio Mondlane, and Botswana’s Ian Khama. The Angolan government cited visa irregularities, but this action highlights ongoing issues of political dissent repression.
Angola has faced criticism for denying entry to prominent African opposition leaders who were invited to a democracy summit hosted by the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (Unita). Leaders denied entry include Tanzanian opposition figure Tundu Lissu, Mozambique’s Venancio Mondlane, and former Botswana President Ian Khama. Lissu described the government’s actions as “inexplicable and unacceptable” on social media.
According to sources from Angola’s Migration and Aliens Service (SME), the refusal was supposedly due to irregularities in the visa applications of Mondlane and 13 other members of his team. Reports indicate that at least 20 political leaders from various African parties were barred from entering.
Senator Edwin Sifuna of Kenya’s opposition, as well as former President of Colombia Andres Pastrana and Zanzibar’s first Vice-President Othman Masoud Othman, were also among those denied entry. Tomas Viera Mario, a Mozambican analyst, remarked on the inconsistency, as President Joao Lourenco has sought a role as a continental mediator while maintaining an authoritarian reputation.
Lourenco, as the sitting chair of the African Union, is set to host peace talks regarding the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, making this denial of entry particularly controversial. Nelito da Costa Ekwiki, a Unita lawmaker, criticized the Angolan government for this action, reflecting ongoing allegations of the regime suppressing dissent and consolidating power. Further reported insights by Jorge Nsimba in Luanda highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding Angolan political governance.
In summary, Angola’s decision to deny entry to key opposition leaders from various African nations has sparked significant outrage. This incident raises questions about the government’s commitment to democratic values, especially in light of President Lourenco’s role within the African Union. The actions taken against these political figures underscore the ongoing struggle against dissent in Angola, as condemned by various political stakeholders. The situation calls for greater scrutiny of Angola’s governance and adherence to principles of democracy and regional cooperation within the African context.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
