Allegations of Poisoning Against Eswatini Opposition Leader Raise Concerns Over Political Repression

The leader of Eswatini’s opposition party, Mlungisi Makhanya, was allegedly poisoned in South Africa, an incident the party claims is an assassination attempt. This allegation follows a backdrop of intense political suppression and human rights abuses under King Mswati III, with Makhanya having announced new pro-democracy protests scheduled for next month.

The People’s United Democratic Movement (Pudemo), the primary opposition party in Eswatini, has alleged that its president, Mlungisi Makhanya, was the target of an assassination attempt involving poisoning while in South Africa. This incident has reignited concerns regarding the political climate in Eswatini, a country characterized by its enduring absolute monarchy, where authorities have persistently suppressed pro-democracy initiatives. Makhanya was reportedly hospitalized following the alleged poisoning on Tuesday while under security protection, although no further details regarding his health status or the circumstances surrounding the incident have been disclosed. Notably, Makhanya had recently announced his intentions to lead new pro-democracy protests in Eswatini in the upcoming month. In response to these claims, Eswatini government spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo firmly denied any governmental involvement. King Mswati III, who has held absolute power since ascending to the throne in 1986, governs a nation of approximately 1.2 million residents, exerting control over all governmental branches. His reign has been marred by criticisms from human rights organizations that highlight an environment devoid of dissent, with severe crackdowns reported against pro-democracy activists. The socio-political landscape in Eswatini witnessed significant unrest in 2021, as major pro-democracy protests emerged, posing a substantial challenge to Mswati’s authoritative rule. These protests were met with brutal responses from security forces, resulting in numerous fatalities, as documented by Human Rights Watch. An especially poignant incident involved the assassination of human rights attorney Thulani Maseko, a Pudemo member, who was shot in his home; both Makhanya and rights advocates have labeled this act a political assassination, with authorities denying any culpability. The alleged poisoning of Makhanya has sparked reactions from various South African political entities, including the Economic Freedom Fighters party, which articulated that he was discovered incapacitated at his home just prior to his anticipated leadership of the forthcoming protests, attributing the event to “the oppressive Mswati regime.” Political parties maintain a complicated status in Eswatini since their prohibition in the 1970s remains unchanged, although some have been permitted to function unofficially. Ultimately, King Mswati III retains the power to appoint government officials while the majority express loyalty to him, as he inherently possesses legislative authority through decree.

Eswatini, previously known as Swaziland, is one of the world’s few remaining absolute monarchies, where the king retains significant power over government, legislation, and the judiciary. King Mswati III’s reign has been criticized for human rights violations and a lack of political freedoms, leading to years of protests and movements striving for democratic reforms. Despite the existence of some political parties, the suppression of dissent has remained pervasive, contributing to a societal atmosphere of fear and repression, particularly among activists. The events surrounding Mlungisi Makhanya’s alleged poisoning encapsulate the ongoing struggle for democracy in Eswatini and the risks faced by opposition leaders in their quest for political change.

The alleged poisoning of Mlungisi Makhanya signifies a critical moment within the political landscape of Eswatini, highlighting the extreme measures taken against dissenters in an environment governed by absolute monarchy. The claims of an assassination attempt underscore the persistent dangers faced by pro-democracy activists in their fight for a more just society. As protests are anticipated, the international community’s scrutiny remains essential in advocating for the protection of fundamental human rights and freedoms within Eswatini.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com