Platform for African Democrats Denounces Angolan Government’s Actions Against Democracy Meeting
The Platform for African Democrats has condemned the Angolan government’s crackdown on a democracy meeting in Benguela, where delegates faced visa denials and deportations. Notable political figures were detained, disrupting participation in a conference aimed at promoting democratic dialogue. PAD criticizes the government’s actions and calls for a public apology from President João Lourenço, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for democracy across Africa.
The Platform for African Democrats (PAD) has publicly condemned the Angolan government’s suppression of a significant democracy meeting in Benguela that involved former heads of state and democracy advocates. Authorities implemented visa denials, detentions, and deportations to prevent delegates from attending, affecting individuals from countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Sudan.
PAD reported multiple visa denials for alleged “technical reasons,” with some delegates—despite holding valid visas—detained and subsequently deported without justification. Among those affected were over 25 political leaders, including Edwin Sifuna from Kenya’s Orange Democratic Movement, who experienced significant disruption.
Some delegates, including notable figures like Ian Khama, Moeketsi Majoro, and Andrés Pastrana, faced a nine-hour hold at the airport before being released, only to miss their flights to the meeting. Although the Angolan government assured delegates that transportation would be arranged, complications arose, resulting in broken-down vehicles and unclear travel logistics.
PAD criticized the actions of the Angolan regime, asserting that such measures expose its unwillingness to engage in conversations regarding democracy. The organization urged President João Lourenço to issue a public apology to those affected, emphasizing the need for openness regarding democratic discussions. Established in 2023, PAD seeks to enhance political parties across Africa by promoting electoral governance practices.
Angola was selected as a host for this meeting due to its role as the current chair of the African Union (AU). This incident coincided with the AU summit in Addis Ababa, which focused on the theme of justice for Africans, raising contrasts between the AU’s goals and the actions in Angola. The Benguela gathering intended to further dialogues initiated in prior PAD summits, addressing transparency and authoritarianism in Africa. High-profile attendees included several former presidents and vice presidents despite the governmental restrictions.
Despite the challenges faced, PAD reaffirmed its commitment to democracy, stating that the Angolan government’s actions inadvertently strengthened advocates of democratic reform across the continent. The organization called for unity among African democrats, emphasizing that the struggle for democracy in Angola symbolizes the broader fight for democracy throughout Africa.
In summary, the PAD’s condemnation of the Angolan government highlights serious concerns regarding the suppression of democratic discourse in Africa. The obstruction faced by numerous political figures at the Benguela meeting illustrates the ongoing challenges for democracy advocates. PAD’s commitment to strengthening democracy across the continent remains resolute, reinforcing the notion that the fight for democracy in Angola is critical for broader efforts across Africa.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
