PUDEMO YOUTH LEADER CALLS FOR END TO MONARCHICAL RULE AT SASCO CONGRESS

Sakhile Awviva Nxumalo, Youth League President of the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), delivered a powerful address at the 23rd Congress of the South African Students Congress (SASCO) in Komani, Eastern Cape, on Wednesday evening. His speech reaffirmed PUDEMO’s unwavering commitment to dismantling Eswatini’s Tinkhundla regime and ending King Mswati III’s absolute monarchy.

Nxumalo’s address resonated deeply with the audience as he outlined the systemic injustices and human rights violations perpetuated by the regime. Eswatini, ruled by King Mswati III, is one of the last absolute monarchies in the world, where political parties are banned from participating in elections. Human rights defenders, activists, and ordinary citizens face arbitrary arrests, torture, and even death for daring to demand democracy. Nxumalo’s words were a call to action, not only for the people of Eswatini but also for regional solidarity in the fight against oppression.

“PUDEMO remains committed to ensuring that King Mswati’s regime is removed and replaced with a democratic government that respects the rights and dignity of all Swazis,” Nxumalo declared. He emphasized the importance of international and regional alliances in achieving this goal, calling on SASCO and other progressive organizations to stand with the people of Eswatini in their struggle for freedom.

The SASCO Congress provided a crucial platform for Nxumalo to garner support from South Africa’s student leaders, who have historically played a significant role in regional liberation movements. He highlighted the shared history of resistance between South Africa and Eswatini, drawing parallels between the struggles against apartheid and the fight against monarchical oppression. His speech underscored the idea that solidarity across borders is essential for achieving justice and democracy.

Nxumalo also took the opportunity to shed light on the sacrifices made by activists in Eswatini. He spoke of the arrests, torture, and killings faced by those who dare to challenge the regime, reminding the audience that the fight for democracy in Eswatini is not just political—it is deeply personal and comes at a great cost. His words were a tribute to those who have given their lives for the cause and a rallying cry for continued resistance.

The PUDEMO Youth League President’s presence at the SASCO Congress is a testament to the growing regional and international recognition of Eswatini’s struggle. His call for unity and action was met with applause and pledges of support, as student leaders from across South Africa reaffirmed their commitment to standing with the people of Eswatini.

Nxumalo’s address highlights the critical role of youth in the fight for democracy. As young leaders like him take the stage, they bring fresh energy and determination to the movement, inspiring a new generation to join the struggle. The Youth League’s involvement in regional forums like the SASCO Congress demonstrates the importance of building alliances and fostering dialogue to amplify the voices of those fighting for justice.

The fight against King Mswati’s regime is far from over, but speeches like Nxumalo’s show that the movement is gaining momentum. With regional solidarity and the unwavering commitment of organizations like PUDEMO, the dream of a democratic Eswatini remains alive. As Nxumalo’s words echoed through the halls of the SASCO Congress, they carried a message of hope, resilience, and the unyielding belief that change is not only necessary but inevitable. Together, the people of Eswatini and their allies across the region will continue to push forward, determined to build a future free from oppression.