THE USE OF TORTURE IN ESWATINI: STORIES FROM THE SHADOWS

In Eswatini, where the monarchy maintains its grip on power through fear and violence, torture has become a grim reality for those who dare to dissent. By November 2022, countless stories of activists, political prisoners, and ordinary citizens enduring torture at the hands of security forces had emerged. These harrowing accounts reveal a regime willing to violate the most basic human rights to silence opposition and maintain control. Yet, the victims of these abuses often remain in the shadows, their pain unseen and their voices unheard.

Torture in Eswatini is not limited to isolated incidents—it is a systematic tool of repression. Detainees, including activists and members of opposition groups, report being beaten, electrocuted, or subjected to other forms of physical and psychological abuse while in custody. The purpose is clear: to extract confessions, intimidate dissenters, and send a chilling message to those who might challenge the monarchy’s authority.

One of the most infamous cases is that of Members of Parliament Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube, who were arrested in 2021 for advocating political reform. While in detention, both MPs were reportedly subjected to severe beatings by prison officials. These acts of torture were not random—they were calculated attempts to break their spirits and deter others from following their example. Despite widespread calls for accountability, no investigations were conducted into these abuses, leaving the perpetrators free to continue their actions.

For grassroots activists and community organizers, the threat of torture is a constant reality. Activists arrested during protests or raids often face brutal treatment in police custody. Reports of detainees being forced to hold stress positions for hours, deprived of food and water, or subjected to mock executions highlight the lengths to which the regime will go to maintain control. Many victims are released without charge, their injuries serving as a stark warning to their communities.

The psychological impact of torture is equally devastating. Survivors often experience trauma, depression, and anxiety, compounded by the stigma of speaking out about their experiences. For many, the fear of retaliation prevents them from seeking justice or sharing their stories. This culture of silence allows the regime to continue its practices unchecked, perpetuating a cycle of abuse and impunity.

Torture in Eswatini violates both domestic and international laws. The country is a signatory to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the United Nations Convention Against Torture, both of which prohibit torture in all circumstances. However, the monarchy’s disregard for these commitments underscores its prioritization of power over human dignity. The failure of the judicial system to hold perpetrators accountable further entrenches this culture of impunity.

The use of torture also reflects the monarchy’s broader strategy of controlling dissent through fear. By targeting individuals and their families with extreme measures, the regime seeks to discourage collective action and weaken the pro-democracy movement. Yet, these efforts have not succeeded in silencing the people of Eswatini. Activists, despite the risks, continue to organize, protest, and demand justice.

The international community must take a stronger stance against the use of torture in Eswatini. Advocacy organizations have documented these abuses, but global actors must go beyond condemnation. Targeted sanctions against individuals responsible for human rights violations, support for survivors, and pressure for independent investigations are critical steps toward addressing this issue.

As an activist in exile, I am committed to amplifying the voices of those who have endured torture. Their stories must be told, not only to expose the regime’s actions but also to honor their resilience and courage. The pain they have endured is a testament to the high cost of fighting for justice in Eswatini, but it is also a reminder of the strength and determination of our people.

The fight against torture is part of the broader struggle for democracy and human rights in Eswatini. It is about ensuring that no one has to endure the suffering inflicted by a regime that values power over humanity. Together, we must continue to demand accountability and advocate for a future where the rights and dignity of every Swazi are upheld.

The shadows of torture cannot obscure the light of justice. The stories of survivors will not be forgotten, and their sacrifices will not be in vain. As we push forward, we carry their strength with us, knowing that a better future is possible. Together, we will build an Eswatini where fear and violence no longer rule, and where every citizen can live with dignity and freedom.