UN HUMAN RIGHTS EXPERTS CONDEMN LACK OF PROGRESS IN THULANI MASEKO ASSASSINATION INVESTIGATION
The United Nations (UN) Human Rights Experts have expressed deep concern over the Eswatini government’s apparent lack of political will to investigate the assassination of Thulani Rudolf Maseko, a prominent human rights lawyer and pro-democracy advocate. A year after his killing, no meaningful progress has been made, raising questions about state complicity and the protection of human rights defenders in Eswatini.
In a report released on Monday, the UN experts criticized the Eswatini government for failing to act and urged the international community to leverage its influence to ensure justice. The report described Maseko as a pillar of the human rights movement, tirelessly working for democracy and justice. The experts highlighted that defending human rights is not a crime and that under no circumstances should human rights defenders face threats, intimidation, violence, or assassination for their work.
The UN report also suggested that Maseko’s assassination may have been directly linked to his advocacy for democratic reforms. The lack of progress in the investigation sends a troubling message that the safety of human rights defenders and civil society actors is not a priority for the Eswatini government. Maseko’s family and the broader human rights community in Eswatini continue to demand the truth, calling for an impartial and independent investigation into his killing.
Thulani Maseko, who served as Chairperson of the Multi-Stakeholder Forum (MSF), was a prominent figure in Eswatini’s fight for democracy. He played a key role in facilitating political dialogue with regional and international organizations, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC), as part of efforts to peacefully transition Eswatini into a democratic dispensation. His assassination silenced a critical voice in the movement and cast a dark shadow over the safety of activists in the kingdom.
The UN experts also condemned the government’s reported threats against Maseko’s widow, Tanele, and others demanding justice for his assassination. These threats have further undermined trust in the government’s commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring accountability for violence against activists. The experts emphasized that Thulani’s family and the human rights community have a right to the truth and to see the perpetrators brought to justice.
The UN’s call for accountability comes amidst growing international scrutiny of Eswatini’s human rights record. Advocacy groups and regional organizations have long criticized the monarchy for its repressive tactics, including the violent suppression of protests, arbitrary arrests, and targeting of activists. The UN report serves as yet another reminder of the urgent need for systemic reform to protect human rights defenders and promote justice in Eswatini.
Efforts to obtain a comment from government spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo were unsuccessful, although the UN confirmed that it had contacted the Eswatini government regarding the matter. The silence from authorities only deepens the perception of impunity and a lack of accountability.
Maseko’s work extended beyond legal advocacy; he symbolized hope for a democratic Eswatini. His efforts to unite various stakeholders and his commitment to peaceful dialogue embodied the spirit of the pro-democracy movement. Despite the risks, his widow, Tanele, and other activists have continued to push for justice, demonstrating remarkable courage in the face of threats and intimidation.
The assassination of Thulani Maseko is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who challenge the Tinkhundla regime. As calls for justice grow louder, the Eswatini government faces mounting pressure to address systemic impunity and ensure the safety of human rights defenders. The international community has an important role to play in holding the Eswatini government accountable and supporting efforts to secure justice for Maseko and others who have paid the ultimate price for their activism.
The UN Human Rights Experts’ report is a rallying cry for action. Thulani Maseko’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle for a democratic Eswatini, and his family and colleagues deserve answers. The fight for justice continues, as does the demand for a government that values human rights and the rule of law.
