A Cry for Change: The Economic Strain on eSwatini’s Citizens

In the heart of eSwatini, at LaMgabhi eTiyeni, a poignant scene unfolds as a soldier from the nearby Mdzimba Army Barracks stands at a gate, his demeanor humble as he kneels down to request just one hundred Rands to buy electricity for his children. This small act of desperation from a man tasked with defending his nation highlights the broader economic challenges faced by the kingdom’s populace under King Mswati’s rule.

The monarch’s governance, marked by an increase in utility tariffs, has not only burdened the average citizen but has also reached the doorsteps of his own security forces. The soldier’s plea echoes the broader sentiment of eSwatini’s people, who endure the dual pressures of economic hardship and political unrest. The encounter is not just a reflection of economic policies but also of a history of compassion within the military ranks, as narrated by someone who once received kindness and support from soldiers during his own youth.

The story of the soldier is emblematic of the larger struggles within eSwatini, where over 60% of the population lives under the poverty line, and economic decisions by the monarchy have a direct impact on everyday lives. Despite the king’s vast wealth, his administration has consistently raised the cost of basic necessities, making life increasingly unaffordable for his subjects.

This economic strategy has historical parallels, notably with Omar Hassan Ahmad al-Bashir of Sudan, whose increase in bread prices triggered widespread protests that ultimately led to his ousting. The narrative suggests that King Mswati could face a similar fate if essential commodities like bread, water, and electricity become excessively priced out of reach for the general populace.

The government’s actions have not only led to financial strain but have also sparked significant political backlash. Recent uprisings have not been marked by the looting of luxury items but rather by the desperate acquisition of basic necessities such as food, pointing to a profound disconnect between the ruling elite and the impoverished masses. This behavior underscores a raw survival instinct among the populace, who are pushed to the brink by policies that prioritize elite enrichment over public welfare.

Moreover, the enforcement of laws that regulate boreholes and solar systems has added to public grievances, illustrating how state policies further entrench poverty rather than alleviate it. Such laws are perceived not just as nuisances but as existential threats to the livelihoods of the poor, making the monarchy’s rule appear increasingly out of touch with the realities of its citizens.

In this climate of growing dissent, there is an urgent call for the government to reassess its approach. Advocates for change argue that without the removal of oppressive laws and a reduction in the prices of basic utilities, the government is essentially committing political suicide. The story of the soldier, a representative of the state itself, asking for help to meet basic needs, serves as a powerful metaphor for the broader societal need for compassionate and rational governance.

As eSwatini continues to navigate these turbulent waters, the future remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: the kingdom stands at a crossroads between continuing its current path of restrictive governance and embracing a more democratic and economically sensible approach. The choice made will undoubtedly shape the destiny of its people and the legacy of its current ruler.