EMASWATI FOR CHANGE CONDEMNS KING MSWATI’S INVITATION TO KING CHARLES III’S CORONATION

Pro-democracy group Emaswati For Change has condemned the decision to invite King Mswati III to the coronation of King Charles III, citing the Eswatini monarch’s record of human rights abuses and violent suppression of dissent. King Mswati, who rules Eswatini as an absolute monarch, has faced international criticism for unleashing state security forces to shoot and kill civilians demanding democratic reforms.

In a public statement issued on Thursday, Saneliswa Magagula, a representative of Emaswati For Change, expressed deep disappointment with King Charles III’s decision to host Mswati at such a prestigious event. The group argued that Mswati’s presence would tarnish the sanctity of the coronation and stain the legacy of the British monarchy.

“Your Majesty, while the people of Eswatini are happy for you as you get officially crowned King, they are extremely saddened by your decision to invite to your dining table King Mswati. King Mswati comes to your ceremony with hands dripping of the blood of our people, which shall stain not only the seats and tables at which he will be sitting but also blemish your entire coronation. The blood of our fallen martyrs shall be flowing under the tables from which you will be eating,” reads the statement in part.

The coronation ceremony for King Charles III is scheduled for May 6, 2023, and is expected to be attended by numerous global leaders and dignitaries. The invitation extended to King Mswati has sparked outrage among pro-democracy activists and human rights defenders, who view the gesture as an endorsement of his oppressive regime.

King Mswati has faced sustained criticism for his handling of pro-democracy protests, particularly following the June 29, 2021, massacre, during which dozens of civilians were killed by state security forces. Political activists, human rights defenders, and journalists in Eswatini frequently face harassment, arrest, and even assassination for opposing the monarchy.

King’s Spokesperson Percy Simelane had not responded to requests for comment at the time of compiling this report.

The invitation has also reignited discussions about the role of international diplomacy in addressing human rights abuses. Critics argue that welcoming figures like King Mswati to global events undermines efforts to hold oppressive leaders accountable and sends a message of indifference to the suffering of those advocating for freedom and democracy.

As the coronation approaches, Emaswati For Change and other pro-democracy organizations are urging the international community to stand in solidarity with the people of Eswatini. Their call highlights the broader struggle for justice and human rights in a kingdom where dissent is met with brutal repression.

The invitation to King Mswati has cast a shadow over the coronation for many Swazis, who see it as a missed opportunity to challenge autocratic rule. For the pro-democracy movement, the fight for a free and just Eswatini continues, even as the monarchy seeks validation on the global stage.