Zanzibar’s Vice President Criticizes Angola’s Diplomatic Actions

On March 13, 2025, Zanzibar’s VP Othman Masoud Othman was detained at Luanda Airport along with other leaders, raising concerns about the African Union’s unity. He condemned this act as unjustified and an embarrassment, especially under Angola’s AU Chairmanship. Othman chose to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum, seeking time for reflection on the incident, which has generated widespread indignation regarding diplomatic standards in Africa.

On March 13, 2025, a significant diplomatic incident occurred at Luanda’s Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport, calling into question the principles of unity within the African Union. Zanzibar’s First Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, along with other distinguished African leaders, faced nearly eight hours of detention upon their arrival for the Africa Democracy Forum, a conference dedicated to governance and democracy in Africa.

Accompanied by Tanzania’s Ambassador to Zambia, Lieutenant General Matthew Edward Mkingule, Othman was among various political figures, including former presidents from Botswana and Colombia and the former Prime Minister of Lesotho. This group was detained without explanation by Angolan authorities, which Othman described as an “embarrassing diplomatic act” that violated the fundamental values of the African Union.

Othman expressed that this incident has tarnished the reputation of the African Union, especially considering that the President of Angola currently holds the Chairmanship. He stated, “The actions taken against us have tarnished the spirit of the African Union,” emphasizing that such actions should be condemned universally by individuals who revere the principles established by the continent’s Founding Leaders.

While frustrated with the treatment he received, Othman clarified his lack of animosity toward the Angolan people, with whom Tanzania has historically maintained strong relations. Nevertheless, he raised concerns regarding the diplomatic standards amongst Africa’s leadership, prompting him to withdraw from the forum and return to Tanzania for further reflection on the events.

He stated, “I believe I need time for deep reflection and to assess what was done to us,” identifying the events as an attack not only on diplomacy but also on democracy in Africa. The episode has incited indignation across the continent, reinforcing the need for elevated standards of respect and solidarity within African leadership.

The incident at Luanda’s airport highlights the pressing necessity for African leadership to embody the principles of unity, respect, and cooperation that are essential to the African Union’s mission. Vice President Othman’s decision to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum reflects a profound discontent with existing diplomatic standards. It serves as a reminder that the actions of leadership should align with the ideals of solidarity established by the continent’s Founding Leaders, urging all nations to promote genuine cooperation among African states.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com