Zanzibar’s Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, condemned the Angolan authorities for their unjustified detention of African leaders during a diplomatic incident at Luanda Airport. He expressed disappointment, emphasizing the negative impact on the African Union’s spirit. Othman withdrew from the Africa Democracy Forum to reflect on the implications of the incident.
On March 13, 2025, a diplomatic incident occurred at Luanda’s Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport, prompting concerns regarding the unity and cooperation within the African Union. Zanzibar’s First Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, and several other distinguished African leaders were detained for nearly eight hours while en route to the Africa Democracy Forum.
In a formal statement, Othman expressed deep disappointment regarding his and others’ mistreatment by Angolan authorities, labeling it an “embarrassing diplomatic act” without justification. Included in the detained group were former presidents and significant political figures from various nations, illustrating the gravity of the incident.
Othman criticized the Angolan authorities for their actions, emphasizing that such behavior undermines the fundamental values of the African Union, particularly given that Angola’s President currently chairs the organization. He asserted that this conduct tarnishes the spirit of African unity that was fostered by the continent’s founding leaders.
Despite his discontent, Othman expressed no ill feelings toward the people of Angola, with whom Tanzania has maintained a strong relationship. Nevertheless, he highlighted that the event raised concerns about diplomatic standards among African leadership.
Ultimately, Othman decided to withdraw from the Africa Democracy Forum to reflect on the incident, perceiving it as a breach of both diplomacy and democracy in Africa. His choice to depart from the forum signifies the seriousness of the situation and serves as a call for higher standards of respect within African governance.
The incident at the airport, which left the detained leaders exhausted, has triggered widespread outcry across the continent, marking a pivotal moment for discussions on diplomatic accountability and mutual respect among African nations.
In summary, the incident involving the detention of Zanzibar’s First Vice President and other leaders at Luanda Airport has raised critical questions about diplomatic practices within the African Union. Othman’s statements highlight the need for higher standards among African leaders and emphasize the core values of unity and cooperation that should prevail. His withdrawal from the Africa Democracy Forum serves as a strong message regarding the significance of respect in international relations in Africa.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
