Humorists Hugo Sousa, Gilmário Vemba, and Murilo Couto were detained at Maputo Airport and barred from entering Mozambique, sparking a debate over visa regulations. The director-general of Mozambique's National Migration Service (Senami) clarified that the trio attempted to enter the country on tourist visas, despite their intention to perform a comedy show.
"They came to the country but did not comply with the criteria for their visit. They were here to perform a cultural activity," stated Zainedine Danane, emphasizing the need for proper documentation for such events. The group, which also included a Portuguese producer, arrived at Maputo International Airport on Sunday, only to face entry denial under Mozambique's 2023 legislation that excludes remunerated activities from tourist visa permissions.
The event, organized by "Tons of Comédia," was scheduled at the China Mozambique Cultural Center in Maputo and had sold out. Gilmário Vemba expressed disappointment in an Instagram live from the airport, announcing the show's cancellation and ticket refunds. The group departed Mozambique the following morning on a TAP flight.
Danane highlighted that the event's promoter failed to obtain the necessary cultural activity credential from Mozambique's Ministry of Culture, a prerequisite for applying for a cultural visa. He also pointed out that Murilo Couto's earlier application for a business visa was incomplete, rendering it invalid for the intended performance.
The incident has raised questions about the intersection of cultural exchange and immigration policies, especially in light of Mozambique's recent electoral tensions and social unrest. Critics speculate whether the denial was influenced by political sensitivities, given Vemba's public support for opposition figures.
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