THE ROLE OF RELIGIOUS LEADERS IN ESWATINI’S POLITICAL STRUGGLE

By March 2023, religious leaders in Eswatini were increasingly being drawn into the nation’s political struggles. Historically seen as neutral voices of moral guidance, many clergy have found themselves navigating the difficult terrain between their faith-based missions and the demands of a population seeking democracy and justice. Their involvement reflects the widening scope of the pro-democracy movement and underscores the moral questions surrounding the monarchy’s oppressive tactics.

The church has long held a significant role in Eswatini’s cultural and social fabric, often acting as a refuge during times of crisis. As the political and human rights crisis deepens, many citizens have turned to religious institutions for hope, protection, and guidance. Some clergy members have answered the call, using their platforms to advocate for justice and call out abuses by the monarchy. Sermons condemning corruption, inequality, and state violence have resonated deeply with congregations, turning places of worship into spaces of quiet resistance.

However, this growing involvement has not come without risks. Clergy who speak out against the monarchy face significant backlash, including harassment, surveillance, and public vilification. Some have been labeled as instigators of unrest, accused of politicizing religion to undermine the state. This pressure has forced many religious leaders to walk a fine line, balancing their moral convictions with the very real dangers of opposing the monarchy.

Not all members of the clergy have taken a stand. Some religious leaders, particularly those aligned with the state, have avoided addressing the political crisis, choosing instead to preach messages of submission and loyalty to authority. Critics argue that this silence amounts to complicity, allowing the monarchy to continue its repression unchecked. For many Swazis, this divide among religious leaders has become a point of contention, as they look to their faith for moral clarity in turbulent times.

The role of religion in Eswatini’s pro-democracy movement also extends beyond sermons and public statements. Religious institutions have provided shelter to activists fleeing persecution and facilitated dialogue among divided communities. Their involvement highlights the broader societal impact of the monarchy’s actions, as faith-based organizations work to heal the wounds inflicted by years of repression.

Internationally, religious groups and faith-based organizations have expressed solidarity with Eswatini’s pro-democracy movement. Calls for justice and accountability from global faith leaders have added weight to the demands for reform. This support has not only amplified the voices of those within Eswatini but also highlighted the moral imperative of the struggle for democracy.

The engagement of religious leaders in Eswatini’s political crisis underscores the interconnectedness of faith and social justice. While their involvement remains a point of debate, their influence cannot be underestimated. For many Swazis, the church represents a beacon of hope and a reminder that the fight for democracy is not just a political struggle but also a moral one.

The monarchy’s response to religious criticism will likely shape the future of this dynamic. Attempts to silence clergy who speak out against injustice may backfire, further alienating the population and strengthening the resolve of the pro-democracy movement. As the political crisis continues, the role of religious leaders in shaping Eswatini’s future will become increasingly important.

In a nation seeking justice and equality, the church has an opportunity to stand with the people and affirm its commitment to moral leadership. By aligning their faith with the principles of human rights and democracy, Eswatini’s religious leaders can play a vital role in the nation’s journey toward freedom. The struggle for democracy is not just a fight for political change—it is a fight for the soul of Eswatini.