The Platform for African Democrats held its third annual meeting in Angola on March 14, 2025, amidst opposition from the Angolan government. This event aimed to strengthen democratic governance in Africa while several delegates faced visa denials and detentions. Participants condemned the authoritarian tactics employed by the Angolan regime, highlighting a collective commitment to democratic principles.
The Platform for African Democrats (PAD) convened its third annual meeting in Angola on March 14, 2025, amid concerted opposition from the Angolan government. This forum, established in 2023, aims to enhance governance by facilitating exchanges on electoral best practices among African political parties. The chosen venue was significant, as Angola holds the chairmanship of the African Union (AU), which simultaneously held its summit in Addis Ababa discussing reparations for African peoples.
Titled “The Future of Democracy in Africa,” the event built upon prior PAD meetings in Gdansk and Cape Town, focusing on fostering democratic accountability against rising authoritarianism. Participants included former heads of state and various dignitaries across the continent, while the gathering was organized by prominent organizations like The Brenthurst Foundation.
Despite the assembly’s importance, the Angolan regime took several measures against attendees, including denying visas to delegates from Uganda and deporting twelve others, including guests from East and Southern Africa. Furthermore, a group, including notable leaders, was detained at the airport for several hours without explanation, ultimately preventing their participation in the summit.
The government suggested compensatory arrangements for those affected; however, multiple transportation failures ultimately thwarted these plans. These actions highlight a systematic effort by the Angolan regime to undermine democratic dialogue, revealing an unwillingness to tolerate discourse around democracy in a supposed democratic society.
The nature of the Angolan regime was starkly revealed, showcasing efforts to marginalize discussions that could promote democratic ideals. In a collective rebuke, participants condemned the regime’s actions, demanding a public apology from President Lourenço for the harassment faced by the invited leaders.
Contrary to the regime’s endeavors, the attendees emerged with enhanced solidarity, advocating for democracy and accountability across the continent. The events in Luanda and Benguela spotlight the manipulative tactics employed by authoritarian governments to maintain power while undermining authentic democratic processes. This illustrates a growing resistance against such actions among African democrats, reinforcing the belief that the struggle for democracy in Angola mirrors the broader continental fight for democratic integrity.
In summary, the recent PAD meeting in Angola was a pivotal event aimed at promoting democracy on the continent, despite significant interference from the Angolan government. The harsh tactics employed against attendees reflect broader challenges faced by democrats in Africa against authoritarian regimes. The unity and resolve demonstrated by the participants underscored a renewed commitment to the principles of democracy and accountability in the face of systemic repression.
Original Source: www.thebrenthurstfoundation.org
