The Eswatini opposition leader, Mlungisi Makhanya, allegedly faced an assassination attempt through poisoning in South Africa, just prior to planned pro-democracy protests. This incident rekindles concerns over Eswatini’s political repression under King Mswati III, where dissent is met with violence. The ruling regime’s suppression of opposition voices and the recent assassination of human rights activists highlight the dire circumstances for pro-democracy proponents in the region.
The People’s United Democratic Movement (Pudemo), Eswatini’s principal opposition party, has raised grave concerns regarding an alleged assassination attempt on its leader, Mlungisi Makhanya, who is purported to have been poisoned in South Africa. This incident has intensified scrutiny on Eswatini, one of the few absolute monarchies remaining in the southern African region, where the government has systematically suppressed pro-democracy initiatives for many years. Makhanya was hospitalized following the alleged poisoning that took place while he was under security protection. The party did not disclose specifics regarding his health or the details surrounding the incident. Notably, in the lead-up to this event, Makhanya had announced plans for renewed pro-democracy protests scheduled for next month in Eswatini. In contrast, Eswatini’s government spokesperson, Alpheous Nxumalo, refuted any allegations of governmental involvement in this incident. King Mswati III, who has been ruling since 1986, exercises significant authority over the nation’s governance structures. Human rights organizations have consistently criticized his reign, noting the lack of political dissent and the severe implications faced by advocates for democracy. In 2021, Eswatini witnessed extensive pro-democracy protests, which were met with violent crackdowns, resulting in at least 46 confirmed fatalities according to Human Rights Watch. The political atmosphere in Eswatini is precarious; political parties were banned in the 1970s, while the current system does ostensibly permit some political activities. However, the king retains absolute power, including the right to appoint the prime minister and manipulate legislative processes. The situation has been further complicated by tragic events, such as the assassination of human rights lawyer and Pudemo member Thulani Maseko, who was shot at his residence in front of his family—a situation Makhanya previously labeled as a political assassination, though the government has consistently denied involvement with no accountability measures taken. In the wake of Makhanya’s alleged poisoning, various South African political factions voiced their condemnation. For instance, the Economic Freedom Fighters party stated that Makhanya was discovered incapacitated at his residence in South Africa as he prepared to spearhead next month’s anticipated protests against the Mswati regime, further underlining the perceived infringement on democratic rights in Eswatini. King Mswati, who is known for his opulent lifestyle amidst widespread poverty in Eswatini, continues to reign with substantial authority, leading to escalating unrest within the nation.
The political landscape in Eswatini is shaped significantly by its status as an absolute monarchy under the rule of King Mswati III, who has reigned since he was a teenager. The government has historically suppressed political opposition and pro-democracy movements, leading to criticism from international human rights organizations. Despite the country’s notable demographic challenges, including high poverty levels, the king maintains a lavish lifestyle, exacerbating public frustration. The killing of prominent activists further highlights the dangers faced by advocates for political reform in Eswatini, as exemplified by the assassination of Thulani Maseko. The previous pro-democracy protests in 2021 marked a turning point for opposition movements, prompting severe governmental reprisals.
In summary, the attempted assassination of Mlungisi Makhanya through alleged poisoning underscores the perilous state of political dissent in Eswatini under King Mswati III. This incident not only raises serious concerns regarding the safety of opposition leaders but also reflects the ongoing struggle for democracy within a repressive regime. The international community remains watchful of these developments, acknowledging the entrenched human rights violations and the desperate call for systemic change in Eswatini.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
