Tanzania’s Opposition Leaders Narrate Ordeal of Denied Entry to Angola

Tanzania’s opposition leaders, including Dorothy Semu and Othman Masoud Othman, were denied entry to Angola and effectively deported back to Tanzania after arriving at Luanda International Airport. Some members spent the night, while a broader trend of entry denials affected other notable political figures. The leaders condemned the actions and reaffirmed their commitment to democratic advocacy despite challenges.

On March 14, 2025, leaders from Tanzania’s opposition party, ACT-Wazalendo, experienced significant difficulties when denied entry into Angola at Luanda International Airport. The delegation, which included party leader Dorothy Semu, was effectively sent back to Tanzania on the same Ethiopian Airlines flight mere hours after arriving, while some members, such as Zanzibar’s First Vice President Othman Masoud Othman and Chadema Chairman Tundu Lissu, were compelled to remain overnight in Luanda.

The opposition leaders were traveling to Benguela to attend the Platform for African Democracy (PAD) conference, which raises concerns regarding governmental attempts to suppress opposition movements. A letter also outlined other notable individuals denied entry, including politicians from Uganda and Kenya, as well as former President of Botswana, Ian Khama, highlighting a broader trend affecting opposition figures across the region.

Mr. Othman condemned the actions taken against the delegation and emphasized the need for African solidarity and the adherence to the principles established by the continent’s founding leaders. In his statement, he indicated that despite his frustration, he harbors no ill feelings towards the Angolan people, reflecting long-standing historical ties between the two nations.

Ms. Semu articulated the belief that the denial of entry by the Angolan government was intended to thwart the PAD conference, which could bolster opposition movements in Africa. She pointed out that the Angolan government is wary of the increasing political influence of the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (Unita), which performed significantly well in the country’s recent elections.

Moreover, communications with airport officials regarding the denied entry were unclear, reinforcing the view that higher authorities may have influenced the decision. Notably, Ms. Semu’s passport was not stamped with an entry refusal, which raised questions given her SADC membership status, which usually does not mandate visa applications.

Despite the setback, Ms. Semu and her colleagues remain resolute in their pursuit of democracy, advocating for a cohesive opposition to drive political reform in the region. The incident has motivated them to continue their advocacy, as affirmed by Ms. Semu, that the fight for democracy will persist despite the numerous challenges encountered.

The denial of entry to Tanzania’s opposition leaders in Angola has highlighted significant issues concerning political freedom and governmental suppression in the region. The actions taken against these leaders raise serious questions about the state of democracy in Africa. Nevertheless, the experiences described by Ms. Semu and Mr. Othman exhibit a resilient commitment to advocating for opposition rights and democratic principles. Their resolve to continue the fight for democracy amidst such challenges is a powerful testament to their dedication to their cause.

Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz