Statement on Events in Benguela and Luanda, Angola

The Platform for African Democrats held its third annual meeting in Angola, facing significant government resistance. Delegates were denied entry and detained as the regime attempted to prevent discussions on democracy. Despite these actions, attendees condemned the regime’s tactics and reiterated their solidarity for democratic values across Africa.

On March 14, 2025, the Platform for African Democrats (PAD) convened its third annual meeting in Angola amidst significant resistance from the Angolan government. Established in 2023, the PAD aims to enhance African governance through democratic discourse by sharing experiences and best practices among political parties. The meeting sought to address pressing concerns over dwindling democratic accountability in Africa, emphasizing the importance of democracy as central to governance improvements.

The event, themed “The Future of Democracy in Africa,” was strategically significant as Angola currently holds the chairmanship of the African Union (AU), which was concurrently transferring authority to President João Lourenço in Addis Ababa. The AU’s theme for the year highlights the pursuit of justice through reparations for Africans and those of African descent, underscoring a pivotal focus on justice and reconciliation across the continent.

Numerous dignitaries attended the event, including past African heads of state, governmental members, civil society leaders, and opposition parties. Notable participants included HE Ian Khama, former President of Botswana, and Moeketsi Majoro, former Prime Minister of Lesotho, among others. However, the Angolan regime’s response was marked by hostility, as many delegates faced visa refusals and detentions upon arrival at the airport.

Specifically, several delegates were either denied entry or deported, while others faced prolonged detention without explanation. During the peak of these disruptions, President Khama, among other leaders, was held for up to nine hours at the airport, with their intended participation in the meeting thwarted. Although the government suggested transportation arrangements to facilitate their arrival at the event, logistical failures rendered such promises unfulfilled.

These actions illustrate a calculated strategy by the Angolan regime to undermine democratic discourse within its borders, raising questions about the authenticity of its self-proclaimed commitment to democracy. Moreover, President Lourenço’s government has exposed its resistance to democratic ideals by obstructing discussions that aim to propel Africa towards equitable governance and accountability.

In light of these occurrences, the attendees of the Benguela meeting have united in condemning the Angolan government’s actions and are calling for a public apology from President Lourenço to those affected. This collective stance fosters solidarity and resilience among African democrats, further motivating their struggle for democracy and accountability.

The events in Angola signify not only a local threat to democratic ideals but also resonate throughout Africa, suggesting a broader conflict between authoritarianism and the pursuit of legitimate governance. The resilience exhibited by the PAD indicates a fortified commitment among African democrats to persist in advocating for democratic values and practices while uniting against adversities.

In conclusion, the recent events surrounding the PAD meeting in Angola underscore the profound challenges facing democratic discourse in the country. The hostile actions taken by the Angolan regime against delegates signify a deeper systemic issue in upholding democratic values. However, the solidarity and resolve demonstrated by African democrats highlight a collective commitment to continuing the fight for democracy across the continent. The need for accountability and transparency remains paramount in fostering a future where all Africans can benefit from their nation’s resources and governance.

Original Source: www.thebrenthurstfoundation.org