Zanzibar’s Vice President criticized the detention of leaders at Luanda Airport as an unjust diplomatic act that undermines AU values. He reaffirmed respect for Angolan people despite the incident and chose to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum to reflect on the treatment received. The event exposed significant concerns regarding diplomatic relations and accountability among African nations.
On March 13, 2025, a diplomatic incident at Luanda’s Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport raised significant concerns regarding unity within the African Union. Zanzibar’s First Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, expressed disappointment after enduring nearly eight hours of detention alongside other notable African leaders. They were en route to the Africa Democracy Forum, which focuses on governance across the continent.
Othman, accompanied by Tanzania’s Ambassador to Zambia, Lieutenant General Matthew Edward Mkingule, was among a group that included former presidents and various political leaders. They were detained without explanation by Angolan officials, prompting Othman to label the actions as an “embarrassing diplomatic act” and wholly unjustified. He stated that such behavior contradicts the fundamental values of the African Union, especially given that Angola’s President currently chairs the AU.
In his statement, Othman noted, “The actions taken against us have tarnished the spirit of the African Union, especially when the President of Angola is the current Chairperson of the AU.” He called for strong condemnation of these actions from all parties who value the principles of brotherhood established by the continent’s founding leaders.
Despite his frustration, Othman maintained that he bears no ill will towards the Angolan people, recognizing the historic ties between Tanzania and Angola. Nevertheless, the incident prompted him to question the standards of diplomacy among African leadership. Consequently, he chose not to attend the Africa Democracy Forum, returning to Tanzania instead to reflect on the incident as a significant attack on diplomacy and democracy within the continent.
Othman expressed, “I believe I need time for deep reflection and to assess what was done to us, which was an attack on diplomacy and democracy within Africa.” The prolonged detainment sparked wide-ranging indignation across the continent, and the Vice President’s withdrawal from the forum underscores the seriousness of the situation, indicating a need for elevated respect and solidarity among African leaders.
The incident involving Zanzibar’s Vice President Othman Masoud Othman at Luanda Airport highlights serious issues pertaining to diplomatic respect and cooperation among African nations. Othman’s condemnation of the Angolan authorities’ actions as detrimental to the spirit of the African Union emphasizes the need for higher standards in African leadership. His decision to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum signifies a call for reflection and accountability in diplomatic interactions between African states.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
