KING MSWATI’S INTERPRETER PRAISES MILITARY READINESS TO “PROTECT” THE MONARCHY

King Mswati’s Interpreter, Sihle Dlamini, has sparked outrage after expressing satisfaction with soldiers demonstrating their readiness to shoot and kill those advocating for democratic reforms. Speaking during the People’s and Places television program on Channel YeMaswati on Thursday, Dlamini described his joy at witnessing the military’s display of force during a recent Passout Parade.

“I was very happy, Ntfulini. The soldiers demonstrated readiness to protect the country. Let these hooligans come and burn our country—we want to see something. The truth is, the situation found us not ready, but now, we are ready. We know bo-IB are planning something against the country,” Dlamini said, referring to alleged intelligence threats.

His comments come in the wake of escalating violence against pro-democracy activists and growing international condemnation of the monarchy’s brutal suppression of dissent. Human rights lawyer Thulani Rudolf Maseko, Chairperson of the Multi-Stakeholder Forum (MSF), was assassinated earlier this year, mere hours after King Mswati publicly threatened those calling for democratic reforms. Maseko’s killing underscored the dangerous environment faced by activists in Eswatini, where advocating for democracy is often met with violence or death.

Dlamini’s remarks have further inflamed tensions, with many accusing the monarchy of weaponizing state institutions, including the military, to silence opposition. The pro-democracy movement in Eswatini has faced numerous challenges, from arbitrary arrests and torture to outright assassinations. The interpreter’s statement appears to validate fears that the regime is actively preparing for more violent crackdowns on those calling for change.

Growing International Scrutiny

As state-sponsored violence continues, international bodies are increasing their scrutiny of the monarchy’s actions. Senator Christopher Coons, Chairperson of the United States Congress Committee on Foreign Relations, recently tabled a resolution seeking sanctions against individuals responsible for human rights violations in Eswatini. The proposed resolution calls for accountability and emphasizes the need to protect those fighting for democracy and justice in the kingdom.

The resolution reflects the mounting frustration among global leaders over the monarchy’s refusal to address its systemic human rights abuses. While such measures could place additional pressure on King Mswati’s regime, the path to meaningful reform remains uncertain as long as the monarchy continues to rely on violence to maintain control.

Weaponizing Fear Against Reform

Dlamini’s statements echo the broader strategy of Eswatini’s monarchy to stifle dissent by instilling fear. The reference to “hooligans” burning the country deflects attention from legitimate grievances over inequality, lack of political representation, and systemic corruption. Pro-democracy activists argue that the monarchy’s narrative aims to delegitimize their calls for reform while justifying the use of excessive force against unarmed civilians.

For many Swazis, the Interpreter’s comments serve as a stark reminder of the regime’s readiness to use violence to protect its interests. The image of soldiers prepared to “shoot and kill” protesters highlights the dangerous climate in Eswatini, where advocating for democracy has become a life-threatening act.

Hope Amid Struggle

Despite the grim reality, the pro-democracy movement remains steadfast in its mission to achieve justice and equality in Eswatini. International support, including potential sanctions and resolutions like those proposed by Senator Coons, offers a glimmer of hope for activists who have long operated under the shadow of repression.

The call for accountability and reform is growing louder, both within Eswatini and globally. As the monarchy continues its crackdown, the resilience of those advocating for democracy remains a powerful counterforce against tyranny. However, the question remains: how many lives must be lost before the world takes decisive action to hold Eswatini’s leadership accountable?

The words of Sihle Dlamini and the continued acts of violence against activists serve as a chilling reminder of the urgency of the fight for democracy in Eswatini.