Senator Sifuna and African Leaders Denied Entry into Angola
Kenya’s Senator Edwin Sifuna and other African leaders were denied entry into Angola despite an invitation from the opposition party UNITA. The decision drew condemnation from those affected. The delegation had submitted a formal visa request, which was disregarded by Angolan immigration authorities without a formal explanation from the government.
On March 14, 2023, Kenya’s Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was part of a group of prominent African political leaders who were denied entry into Angola. This delegation was invited by the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) to participate in a two-day meeting in Luanda but was blocked by immigration authorities upon arrival.
Senator Sifuna expressed his dismay, stating, “UNITA President Adalberto Costa invited us to Angola. The government has denied us entry!” Tanzania’s opposition leader, Tundu Lissu, who was also part of the group, condemned the action, labeling it “unacceptable” and indicating that more than twenty leaders from southern Africa were similarly affected.
The denied leaders included influential figures such as a First Vice President from Tanzania, a former President of Botswana, and a former Prime Minister of Lesotho, along with representatives from various nations including Kenya, Sudan, South Africa, Namibia, and others. This incident underscores the implications of diplomatic relations in the region.
Lissu further noted Tanzania’s historical contributions to Angola during its independence struggle, emphasizing the nation’s past support against apartheid forces. He remarked, “As SADC members, Tanzanians don’t need visas to enter Angola,” criticizing the immigration decision as “totally unacceptable.”
A formal visa request had been submitted to the Angolan authorities prior to the delegation’s intended visit, with UNITA’s Office Director, Lucas Tomas Kanutula, assuring local officials that the party would be accountable for the group’s accommodations. Despite these measures, the delegation was ultimately denied entry without a formal explanation from the Angolan government.
The denial of entry for Senator Sifuna and other African leaders into Angola highlights diplomatic tensions and the complexities tied to immigration policies within the region. The incident raises concerns about the treatment of political figures and the careful maneuvering required for international visits in Africa. With no official explanation provided by the Angolan government, the incident may lead to further scrutiny of Angola’s immigration practices and its relations with neighboring countries.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
