THE FIGHT FOR DEMOCRACY AND AN END TO POLICE BRUTALITY IN ESWATINI
The human rights situation in Eswatini has reached a critical point, sparking widespread protests and calls for change. Once a peaceful nation, Eswatini is now a country battling government oppression and police brutality. What began as a movement to address police misconduct has transformed into a larger struggle for democratic reform and human rights.
THE EVENTS THAT IGNITED THE UNREST
The tragic death of 25-year-old law student Thabani Nkomonye in May 2021 became a turning point for the nation. Thabani’s body was discovered a week after his wrecked car was found near his family home in Nhlambeni. Conflicting reports from the police about the circumstances surrounding his death led to public outrage. Allegations of police involvement and excessive force turned Thabani into a symbol of the fight against injustice in Eswatini.
His death sparked nationwide petitions in May and June 2021, where citizens peacefully appealed to local constituencies to end police brutality. These peaceful actions were met with a heavy-handed response. On June 25, the acting Prime Minister issued a decree banning protests, and state security forces began a brutal crackdown. Over 70 peaceful protesters were reportedly killed in the days that followed.
An internet shutdown on June 29 added to the unrest, silencing communication and limiting the ability of citizens to share their grievances. Regional actors, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC), arrived on July 4 to assess the situation, but the violence and suppression continued.
CONTINUED REPRESSION
Despite growing calls for reform, the Eswatini government has refused to back down. On July 16, a traditional Sibaya dialogue was held, where King Mswati III announced a new Prime Minister, Cleopas Dlamini. The move was seen by many as an attempt to pacify the protests, but it did little to address the root causes of discontent.
Two Members of Parliament, Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube, were arrested on July 25 under charges tied to the Suppression of Terrorism Act. Their arrest highlighted the government’s use of legal instruments to suppress dissent.
Protestors continued to demand change. On October 1, over 10,000 people marched peacefully to the US Embassy seeking international support. However, the response was violent, with one protestor shot. A second internet shutdown followed on October 15, further suppressing freedom of speech and access to information.
By October 18, the death toll of protestors had risen to over 80 as security forces continued to use live ammunition, tear gas, and rubber bullets to disperse crowds. The voices demanding change were met with disproportionate force, but the resilience of the people remained strong.
“MY SON’S TRAGIC DEATH IS NOT IN VAIN”
Siphiwe Mkhabela, the mother of Thabani Nkomonye, continues to fight for justice for her son. “If his death leads to a change in how human rights are viewed in the country, I will feel that my child was perhaps a necessary and worthy martyr,” she said. Thabani’s death has become a rallying point for the youth, civil society, and other stakeholders campaigning for democratic reform.
Despite the government’s promises of a commission of inquiry into Thabani’s death, no significant progress has been made. The wheels of justice have stalled, leaving his family and supporters frustrated but determined.
A CALL FOR JUSTICE
The demands for #JusticeForThabani and #EswatiniLivesMatter continue to gain momentum. Citizens and international observers are calling on Eswatini authorities to end the crackdown on peaceful protests. The excessive use of force, live ammunition, and suppression of dissent must stop.
Eswatini stands at a crossroads. The people are fighting for a nation where human rights are respected, freedom of speech is protected, and justice prevails. The government must choose whether to listen to its citizens or continue down the path of oppression.
Thabani Nkomonye’s death was a tragedy, but it has become a symbol of hope for a brighter, more just future in Eswatini. The fight for democracy and human rights continues.
