Zanzibar’s VP Critiques Angolan Authorities over Diplomatic Incident
A diplomatic incident at Luanda’s airport resulted in the detainment of Zanzibar’s VP and several African leaders for nearly eight hours. Othman condemned the actions of Angolan authorities as damaging to the African Union’s values, voicing concerns over diplomatic standards in Africa. He ultimately withdrew from the Africa Democracy Forum to reflect on the incident, highlighting the importance of solidarity among African nations.
On March 13, 2025, a diplomatic incident at Luanda’s Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport has raised serious concerns regarding unity within the African Union. Zanzibar’s First Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, along with several distinguished leaders, was detained for nearly eight hours while en route to the Africa Democracy Forum, intended to discuss governance across the continent.
Accompanying Othman was Lieutenant General Matthew Edward Mkingule, Tanzania’s Ambassador to Zambia. They were part of a delegation that included former presidents, a former Prime Minister, and various political leaders, all of whom were subjected to unreasonable detainment by Angolan authorities without explanation.
Othman criticized the actions of Angola by labeling them an “embarrassing diplomatic act,” indicating that such behavior undermines the core values of the African Union, especially under the current Chairmanship of Angola. He stated, “The actions taken against us have tarnished the spirit of the African Union.”
He further asserted that this incident warrants condemnation from both African nations and the global community, emphasizing the importance of brotherhood established by Africa’s founding leaders. Despite expressing disappointment, Othman clarified that he has no ill feelings towards the people of Angola, acknowledging their longstanding ties with Tanzania.
The incident has led Othman to question the diplomatic protocols observed by African leaders. Following the ordeal, he opted to forgo participation in the Africa Democracy Forum, deciding instead to return to Tanzania for contemplation.
Othman articulated the need for reflection on the experience, regarding it as an affront to diplomacy and democracy in Africa. He expressed, “I believe I need time for deep reflection and to assess what was done to us.”
This situation has ignited considerable outrage across the African continent. Othman’s withdrawal from the forum signals that African leadership must meet higher standards of respect and solidarity among nations, highlighting the critical need for diplomacy within the region.
The diplomatic incident at Luanda’s airport has raised important issues regarding respect and cooperation within the African Union. Zanzibar’s Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, condemned the unjust detainment of leaders and underscored the need for higher standards in African diplomatic relations. His decision to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum serves as a significant reminder of the necessity for unity among African nations in upholding the principles of democracy and brotherhood.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
