Political analysts point to these developments as indicative of the challenges facing the African democratisation process, highlighting that the continent still has a long way to go.

At least 20 leaders and representatives from various political parties across Africa were denied entry, said Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu. Angola is under fire after it denied entry to several senior African political figures set to attend a conference hosted by the country's main opposition party.

Airport officials failed to provide any concrete explanation for the denial, suggesting they were following higher orders.