The leaders, including Botswana's former President Ian Khama, Tanzania's opposition leader Tundu Lissu, Mozambique's Venâncio Mondlane, and Colombia's former President Andrés Pastrana, were detained upon arrival at Luanda airport.

Despite UNITA's assurances to the Angolan government regarding the delegation's stay, Angolan authorities blocked their entry, leading to widespread concern and allegations of political interference. The leaders had travelled to Angola to participate in an international conference in Benguela, organised by UNITA to mark its anniversary.

The incident has sparked a diplomatic row, with many questioning the motives behind the Angolan government's decision. Lissu expressed his frustration on social media, condemning the treatment of nationals from brotherly African nations by Angolan immigration authorities.

--ChannelAfrica--