The ACT-Wazalendo party and ruling CCM in Tanzania are embroiled in a conflict following the blockade of opposition leaders at an Angolan airport. Accusations of misrepresentation have been exchanged, with calls for transparency and accountability. ACT-Wazalendo is urging the Tanzanian government to clarify the circumstances of the blockage while questioning Angola’s leadership role in promoting democracy within African governance frameworks.
In Tanzania, the ACT-Wazalendo party and ruling Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) have engaged in a blame game over an incident involving opposition leaders being blocked from entering Angola. Masoud Othman, ACT-Wazalendo Chairman and First Vice President of Zanzibar, accused senior CCM figures, specifically Stephen Wasira and Hamis Mbetto, of misrepresenting the circumstances surrounding the blockage of his convoy at Quatro de Fevereiro Airport, where he had intended to participate in the African Democracy Forum (PAD).
Othman, along with fellow leaders including Chadema Chairman Tundu Lissu, was prohibited from entering Angola earlier this week, prompting ACT-Wazalendo to issue a strong condemnation and demand a public denunciation from the Tanzanian government. Wasira countered the allegations, suggesting opposition leaders should not direct blame toward the government, as the airport is managed independently by Angolan authorities, who may have had justifiable reasons for the blockage.
Mbetto chimed in, asserting that Othman and his delegation failed to adhere to the required travel procedures for entering Angola, which led to their blockade. Responding to these claims, Othman emphasized that all necessary protocols had been properly observed, confirming that approval from President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had been secured prior to their travel.
Despite accusations from CCM leaders, Othman denied any Tanzanian government complicity in the blockage, suggesting it was purely an issue related to circumstances in Angola. Mbetto defended his position vigorously, rejecting accountability for the incident and challenging Othman to consider why his convoy was singled out when other leaders traveled without obstruction.
Additionally, Mbetto criticized Othman for previously inciting unrest and verbal attacks against President Mwinyi without repercussions, implying that he should display greater political tolerance. Meanwhile, ACT-Wazalendo leader Dorothy Semu expressed disappointment regarding the lack of governmental communication following the blockage and called for the Tanzanian ambassador to Angola to clarify the situation.
Semu also raised concerns about Angola’s leadership role in the African Union (AU), questioning the current president’s capacity to foster democracy. The recent PAD Forum highlighted the need for political engagement among African leaders, marking it as critical for the continent’s political future.
In summary, the ongoing dispute between ACT-Wazalendo and CCM highlights significant political tensions in Tanzania. Accusations of misrepresentation and procedural failures have emerged in the wake of the blockage incident involving opposition leaders in Angola, raising questions about political accountability. The need for governmental transparency regarding the incident has been emphasized, alongside concerns for the efficacy of Angola’s leadership within the African Union. The situation remains a focal point in Tanzanian politics, reflecting broader issues concerning democracy and governance in Africa.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
