The Eastern Cape government says the necessary and correct procedures to facilitate UAE President Sheik Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's visit to the province were followed.
The president's visit to South Africa raised questions as to why he and his entourage landed at Bhisho Airport and what procedures were followed.
The Daily Dispatch reported that 60 people arrived at the airport on three flights on Sunday and Monday after obtaining special permission from home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi to use it as a port of entry at Eastern Cape premier Oscar Mabuyane’s request.
On Wednesday, three passenger flights arrived during the day, as well as a phalanx of large turbine helicopters and a large transport aircraft that unloaded vehicles.
“The UAE president is undertaking a private visit and is expected to explore the beauty of the Eastern Cape,” the provincial government said in a statement.
“All processes, including making sure that as they enter the airport the necessary searches are conducted by officials, state institutions and departments have been followed,” spokesperson Khuselwa Rantjie told Newzroom Afrika.
She could not go into detail about what the requirements are for those wanting to make such a landing.
“I am aware there is a process that must be followed and must get the approval of the minister of home affairs for such to happen,” said Rantjie.
Aviation sources told the Sunday Times the logistical arrangements for the landing were extraordinary and included an airport revamp and contracting specialised air traffic staff to man the tower at the airport.
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) confirmed it had inspected the airport to ensure compliance.
“The Bhisho Airport management upgraded the airport infrastructure,” said spokesperson Sisa Majola. “The SACAA conducted oversight inspections to ensure those upgrades were adequate and in line with regulation requirements and standards.”
On social media, many expressed mixed reactions to the visit.
Here is a snapshot of what they had to say:
Did SA do everything required for the extradition request, or was it just another PR exercise to cover up the corruption and looting spree thtook place. If they landed on a private airstrip, did we have to dispatch officials to verify passports, or was it another Gupta agreement?
— LC (@LouisChanguion) April 21, 2023
This situation by Bisho (PRIVATE) Airport, of the UAE President, landing his entourage of 500 UNKNOWN people is very alarming and disturbing 😰 What has this country become though?? Do we still even have a country here? 😬
— Kealeboga Mothobi (@_KealebogaMO) April 23, 2023
One day we will look back and realize that we failed…
I don't think the people of UAE would ever allow President Cyril Ramaphosa to land a Boeing Jet in an airport refurbished with his own money , with over 500 South Africans.
— Sibu Gwiliza (@S_Gwiliza) April 22, 2023
Now that the President of UAE is here, all our previous requests are being heard... https://t.co/bOcsRADUVR
— Goitse Diale (@GoitseDiale) April 24, 2023
If we are able roll out red carpet for the British royal family and the likes of de Klerk then why not the ruler who upholds the rule of law,not involving himself in political battles of other countries
— Madikana Rasebotsa....🐘🐘🐘 (@skizoland) April 21, 2023
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