ESWATINI RED CROSS ACCUSED OF NEGLECTING STATE VIOLENCE VICTIMS IN GEGE EVICTIONS

The Eswatini Red Cross Society, a humanitarian organization committed to impartiality, is facing criticism for allegedly neglecting victims of state-sponsored violence, including those affected by the recent evictions and demolitions in Gege-Mbondzela. Despite its stated mission to assist victims without political discrimination, insiders claim the organization has avoided helping those opposing the government.

Employees within the Red Cross told Swaziland News that they have raised concerns about this issue with Director Danger Nhlabatsi, who they describe as a staunch loyalist of the ruling Tinkhundla regime. According to the employees, Nhlabatsi has discouraged providing aid to individuals perceived as critical of the government, despite the organization’s principles of neutrality and impartiality.

“We are having a problem when it comes to assisting victims of state violence. The Director would sometimes say we mustn’t be seen assisting those opposing the government, yet the values of this organization suggest that we are not politically aligned. We must be seen assisting even those who oppose the government,” said one employee, speaking anonymously. “Writing a story will help because the donors will conduct their own investigation and ask us, and they will get the truth. Red Cross is not an organization for the government; we must help everyone, and that is part of our values.”

As of the time of reporting, Director Danger Nhlabatsi had not responded to questions regarding these allegations.

The recent evictions in Gege-Mbondzela have left hundreds of residents homeless, without food, shelter, or basic necessities. Despite widespread condemnation of the evictions and the government’s eventual reversal of its initial support for the demolitions, no tangible aid has been provided to the victims. Many remain exposed to harsh weather conditions, with their livelihoods disrupted and no immediate solutions in sight.

Siboniso Mkhabela, National Organization Secretary (NOS) of the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), confirmed the dire situation faced by the evicted residents. He criticized both the Eswatini Red Cross and the government’s National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) for failing to provide assistance. “As we speak, the victims are exposed to extreme cold weather conditions because their homes were destroyed. Stopping the evictions or demolitions without any assistance to the residents whose lives were disrupted is not enough,” Mkhabela said.

Mkhabela highlighted that PUDEMO, along with the Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS), had successfully led protests to halt the evictions. However, he stressed that the lack of support for those already affected reflects broader systemic failures in Eswatini’s response to crises.

The allegations against the Red Cross raise significant questions about its adherence to its humanitarian mandate. Critics argue that its perceived alignment with the government undermines its credibility and ability to serve those in need, particularly in politically sensitive situations. The organization’s reluctance to assist victims of state violence could jeopardize donor confidence and its reputation as a neutral entity.

The plight of Gege-Mbondzela residents underscores the urgent need for accountability and action. Humanitarian organizations, including the Red Cross, are expected to operate impartially, prioritizing the needs of vulnerable populations regardless of political affiliations. As the situation in Gege continues to unfold, calls for transparency and adherence to humanitarian principles are growing louder.

For the residents of Gege-Mbondzela, the struggle for justice and recovery remains an uphill battle. Their plight serves as a stark reminder of the systemic inequalities and challenges faced by those who dare to speak out or find themselves caught in the crossfire of Eswatini’s political and economic crises. As pressure mounts on the Red Cross and other agencies to uphold their commitments, the victims’ voices remain a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of the people in the face of adversity.