Zanzibar’s Vice President Othman Masoud Othman condemned Angolan authorities for detaining him and other leaders at the airport. He described the incident as an “embarrassing diplomatic act” that undermines African Union values during Angola’s AU Chairmanship. Othman opted to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum, calling for higher standards in African diplomacy.
The recent diplomatic confrontation at Luanda’s Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport has raised concerns regarding the unity and cooperation spirit within the African Union. On March 13, 2025, Zanzibar’s First Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, was detained for nearly eight hours, along with other esteemed African leaders, while en route to the Africa Democracy Forum, a vital conference focused on governance and democracy across the continent.
Among those detained were notable figures, including former presidents from Botswana and Colombia and the former Prime Minister of Lesotho, with Angolan authorities providing no explanation for their actions. Othman condemned the incident as an “embarrassing diplomatic act” that undermines the core values of the African Union, particularly amidst Angola’s current Chairmanship.
He remarked, “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.” Othman emphasized the need for all Africans and the global community to condemn such behavior, which deviates from the principles of brotherhood established by pioneering leaders.
Despite his disappointment, Othman expressed no ill will towards the Angolan populace, acknowledging Tanzania’s long-standing friendship with Angola. Nonetheless, he questioned the diplomatic standards maintained by Africa’s leadership following this incident. Subsequently, Othman decided to withdraw from participating in the Africa Democracy Forum and return to Tanzania to reflect on the events, viewing them as an affront to both diplomacy and democracy in Africa.
He stated, “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 protracted detention left the leaders fatigued and has incited a wave of outrage across the continent. Othman’s withdrawal from the forum underscores the urgency for African leadership to adhere to higher standards of respect and solidarity.
The diplomatic incident at Luanda airport involving Zanzibar’s First Vice President and other prominent leaders reflects a serious issue regarding the adherence to African Union values. Othman Masoud Othman’s condemnation of the Angolan authorities’ actions highlights the need for a unified front among African nations, especially in upholding core principles of respect and cooperation. His decision to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum stresses the importance of diplomatic integrity and solidarity within African leadership.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
