Eswatini’s human rights situation has not improved since May 2021, with ongoing repression against activists, journalists, and political opposition. The government has reinstated harsh sedition laws, bolstering its ability to target dissent. Disturbing incidents, including the alleged poisoning of opposition leader Mlungisi Makhanya, and harassment of Tanele Maseko signify the regime’s intensified efforts to stifle any resistance. Escalating bans on public gatherings further showcase the state’s crackdown on freedoms and expressions of dissent.
Since May 2021, the kingdom of Eswatini has remained in a deep pit of human rights violations against activists, journalists, and trade unionists, without any sign of improvement. The African Commission on Human and People’s Rights’ appeals for democratic reforms have been largely ignored, and the failure to implement Resolution 569 has left activists without hope for meaningful change. At the 44th SADC Summit on August 17, 2024, global leaders were urged to confront Eswatini’s severe human rights crisis. However, King Mswati III’s request led to the exclusion of Eswatini from critical discussions, demonstrating a disturbing lack of accountability that further heightens the suffering of pro-democracy advocates. Eswatini’s Supreme Court resurrected draconian provisions of the Suppression of Terrorism Act and the Sedition Act, reversing a 2016 ruling that had protected freedoms of association, expression, and assembly. This latest court ruling emboldens the government to suppress opposition, exemplified by the harsh prison sentences handed to lawmakers who participated in pro-democracy protests in 2021. Tanele Maseko, widow of the late activist Thulani Maseko, faces government harassment and surveillance after her husband’s murder in January 2023. Her recent detention at the Ngwenya Border reveals a pattern of intimidation designed to stifle her quest for justice and perpetuates the oppression of human rights defenders in Eswatini. Opposition leader Mlungisi Makhanya was rushed to a Pretoria hospital after an alleged poisoning incident, exposing the regime’s relentless pursuit of silencing its critics. Makhanya, who had previously experienced violent attacks, is emblematic of the dangerous environment for political activists under King Mswati’s rule, prompting calls for justice from organizations like the International Commission of Jurists. The government has intensified its crackdown on public dissent with harsh bans on gatherings and increased surveillance measures. Eswatini Newsroom confirms that no public assemblies are permitted, reflecting the regime’s unwavering efforts to choke off any expression of protest and dissent.
The dire situation unfolding in Eswatini highlights the ongoing struggle for human rights and freedoms amidst authoritarian governance. The country, known as Africa’s last absolute monarchy, has witnessed systematic oppression targeting activists and dissenters. International resolutions calling for reform remain unheeded, leaving activists vulnerable to arrest and punishment under draconian laws.
In summary, Eswatini’s landscape remains bleak for human rights activists, with ongoing repression, severe prison sentences, and targeted harassment against opposition figures. The government’s crackdown on public assembly and media freedom perpetuates a climate of fear while regional and international calls for reform echo unheeded. The urgent need for accountability and justice for human rights violations continues to grow amidst the silencing of dissent.
Original Source: monitor.civicus.org
