Senator Sifuna Denied Entry to Angola, Voices Concerns Over Detained Leaders

Senator Edwin Sifuna was denied entry into Angola and subsequently traveled to Ethiopia. He condemned the detention of over 20 international leaders by Angolan authorities, calling for their immediate release. Despite receiving support from the Kenyan mission, the incident has raised concerns regarding Angola’s conduct as chair of the African Union.

On March 13, 2025, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna traveled to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, after being denied entry into Angola. He was invited by UNITA, Angola’s main opposition party, for a visit that included several politicians and activists. Sifuna expressed appreciation to the Kenyan diplomatic mission in Luanda but strongly condemned the Angolan authorities for detaining over 20 leaders from various nations, including Tanzanians, Botswanans, and South Africans.

Among those detained are nine individuals from Tanzania, five from Botswana, three from Lesotho, two from Malawi, and one each from eSwatini and Germany. Additionally, there are two citizens from the United Kingdom and two from South Africa in custody. Senator Sifuna highlighted the urgency of their release, stating, “The Angolan authorities must immediately let them out.” He further criticized the treatment of visitors in Angola, especially as the country holds the chair position in the African Union.

Earlier that Thursday, Sifuna disclosed his entry denial while he and a group of politicians from Uganda, Kenya, Ukraine, and Ethiopia were attempting to land at Luanda’s 4 de Fevereiro International Airport. Their visit was facilitated by UNITA President Adalberto Costa Júnior, yet Angolan authorities ultimately barred their entry. In a post on X, Sifuna noted, “The government has denied us entry,” referencing their formal visa request submitted by UNITA’s presidential office, which assured responsibility for the visitors’ accommodations during their intended stay.

A letter signed by UNITA’s Chief of Staff, Lucas Tomás Nhanyula, indicated that the group was set to enter Angola on March 13, emphasizing that UNITA would take full responsibility for them. This situation has raised concerns regarding the reception of international visitors in Angola.

Senator Edwin Sifuna’s trip to Ethiopia underscores significant diplomatic tensions related to Angola’s treatment of foreign leaders. Despite the Senator’s appreciation for Kenyan diplomatic assistance, the detention of over 20 international leaders, including those from neighboring African nations, poses questions about Angola’s responsibility as chair of the African Union. The call for immediate release of these detainees remains a critical concern, highlighting the complexities of political diplomacy in the region.

Original Source: nairobileo.co.ke