Tanzanian Political Tensions Rise Over Angola Opposition Leaders’ Blockage
ACT-Wazalendo Chairman Masoud Othman has accused CCM leaders of misrepresenting the blockage of his convoy at an airport in Angola. The blockage occurred during the African Democracy Forum event, leading to public statements from both sides. Othman insists all travel protocols were followed, while CCM representatives assert failure to comply with regulations.
The political landscape in Tanzania has been perturbed by accusations between the opposition party ACT-Wazalendo and the ruling Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM). ACT-Wazalendo Chairman Masoud Othman has criticized CCM leaders Stephen Wasira and Hamis Mbetto for allegedly misrepresenting the circumstances of his convoy’s blockage at Quatro de Fevereiro Airport in Angola.
Othman’s convoy was denied entry to Angola while attending the African Democracy Forum (PAD), prompting ACT-Wazalendo to condemn the action and call for government intervention. The contention raised questions about Tanzania’s diplomatic role and responsibilities toward its leaders traveling abroad.
In response to the allegations, Wasira remarked that the opposition should refrain from blaming the Tanzanian government, which does not manage Angolan airports. He expressed concern about the accusations and suggested that the blocking could be due to reasons determined by Angolan authorities.
Mbetto further defended his stance, asserting that Othman’s group had failed to adhere to travel protocols, which allegedly resulted in their clearance issues. He questioned Othman’s failure to recognize the procedural discrepancies regarding their travel arrangements.
Othman contends that all appropriate measures were indeed observed and that clearance had been secured from the President of Zanzibar, alongside notifications to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Security Department prior to the trip. He stated, “If there was a mistake, it lies with Angola, as they should have communicated with us upon our arrival.”
Mbetto retorted that Masoud’s grievances should be directed inward, questioning why his convoy faced challenges while others had traveled successfully. He criticized Masoud’s previous actions, suggesting that as a politician, he should exhibit tolerance and accountability for his statements and behavior.
Further, Dorothy Semu of ACT-Wazalendo urged the government to provide clarity regarding the blockage and suggested summoning the Tanzanian Ambassador to Angola for explanation. She also expressed concern over the upcoming leadership of the African Union under Angola’s current President, highlighting the potential implications for democracy in Africa.
The PAD Forum, which convened three times since its inception in 2023, aims to facilitate discussions on crucial political matters affecting the continent’s future. The recent blockage incident underscored deeper issues within Tanzanian political dynamics and its international engagements.
The recent incident involving the blockage of ACT-Wazalendo leaders in Angola has ignited a political dispute between the opposition and ruling party in Tanzania. Accusations ensued regarding accountability and proper protocol adherence, with leaders from both sides asserting their positions. This episode not only raises questions about Tanzanian diplomatic relations and procedural integrity but also impacts broader conversations about Africa’s political climate and the role of its leaders in promoting democracy.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
