Senator Sifuna Returns to Ethiopia After Denial of Entry into Angola

Senator Edwin Sifuna, after being denied entry into Angola, arrived in Addis Ababa. He condemned the detention of over 20 leaders from several countries, including Tanzanian and Botswanan nationals. His visit was aligned with an invitation from UNITA President Adalberto Costa Júnior, but upon arrival, the group was blocked from entering Angola, prompting calls for the immediate release of those detained.

Senator Edwin Sifuna from Nairobi arrived safely in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, after being denied entry to Angola. Sifuna’s trip to Central Africa was in response to an invitation from UNITA, the principal opposition party in Angola. He expressed appreciation for the support received from the Kenyan diplomatic mission in Luanda, while simultaneously condemning the Angolan government’s detention of over 20 leaders from various countries.

Senator Sifuna highlighted the urgent need for the release of the detained leaders, revealing that among them are nine individuals from Tanzania, five from Botswana, and three from Lesotho. Additionally, two Malawi nationals, one from eSwatini, one German, two individuals from the UK, and two South Africans are included in this group. He stated, “The Angolan authorities must immediately let them out. Such a shame that visitors can be treated like this in an African country.”

Earlier in the day, he reported that he and a cohort of politicians and activists from Uganda, Kenya, Ukraine, and Ethiopia were blocked from entering Angola upon their arrival at Luanda’s 4 de Fevereiro International Airport. This visit was arranged by UNITA’s President, Adalberto Costa Júnior. Sifuna informed his followers on social media, writing, “The government has denied us entry.”

To support their visit, a formal visa application had been submitted by UNITA’s presidential office to Angola’s Migration and Foreign Services. This document, signed by Chief of Staff Lucas Tomás Nhanyula, assured the authorities that UNITA would oversee the visitors’ stay in the country, stating, “They will enter the country tomorrow, March 13, 2025, at the 4 de Fevereiro International Airport. The Office of the President of UNITA declares responsibility for their stay in Angola.”

In conclusion, Senator Edwin Sifuna’s trip to Angola led to a significant controversy as he, along with other leaders, was denied entry into the country. His condemnation of the detainment of leaders from multiple nations highlights serious concerns about diplomatic relations and human rights within Angola, particularly given its leadership role in the African Union. The incident raises questions regarding governmental protocols and the treatment of international visitors in Angola.

Original Source: nairobileo.co.ke