Eswatini’s Uphill Battle: Seeking Justice for 2021 Violence

Eswatini: Still No Justice for 2021 Violence

Ensure Accountability, Establish All-Inclusive National Dialogue

JUNE 26, 2023 |

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, continues to grapple with a deepening crisis of governance, human rights abuses, and a lack of justice for the violence that occurred during pro-democracy protests in 2021. Human Rights Watch has criticized the Eswatini authorities for their failure to ensure accountability for the crackdown on protesters and to conduct transparent investigations into the killings and other human rights violations committed by security forces. The government’s repression of dissenting voices, arrest of government critics, and resistance to democratic reforms have only exacerbated the country’s deteriorating human rights record.

The pro-democracy demonstrations that began in May 2021 were seen as a turning point for Eswatini. However, two years on, the government has made no progress in addressing the demands for justice and human rights. The ongoing repression and lack of accountability are indicative of a deeper crisis that calls for urgent action and a commitment to democratic principles.

The Need for Accountability

The government’s failure to conduct independent and impartial investigations into the violence that occurred during the protests is deeply concerning. The excessive use of force by security forces resulted in the deaths of at least 46 people and numerous other human rights abuses. Despite calls from international partners and other actors for rights reforms, the government has not taken any meaningful steps towards justice and accountability.

The Urgency of an All-Inclusive National Dialogue

In the face of the continued unrest and repression, there is an urgent need for an all-inclusive national dialogue in Eswatini. Such a dialogue would allow all Swazi people to collectively deliberate on the democratic future of the country. Inclusive dialogue is crucial for rebuilding trust, fostering reconciliation, and charting a path towards sustainable democratic reforms.

This dialogue should not only involve government officials but also include representatives from civil society, advocacy groups, and opposition parties. The voices of those who have been marginalized and oppressed must be heard, and their grievances and demands for justice must be taken seriously. The engagement of regional bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights is essential in monitoring human rights developments in Eswatini and pushing for the necessary reforms.

The Need for International Pressure

The international community must not remain silent in the face of ongoing human rights abuses and a lack of justice in Eswatini. Regional bodies like the SADC and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights should continue to monitor the situation and exert pressure on the Eswatini government to undertake the required human rights reforms. The role of Special Envoys, established by President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, must be reinvigorated to ensure sustained engagement and concrete progress towards resolving the crisis.

Moreover, the Eswatini government must review the 1973 decree that dissolved and banned political parties in the country. Banning political parties not only violates international standards for democratic elections but also undermines the fundamental right to freedom of association. Allowing political parties to freely participate in elections will facilitate a more inclusive and representative political process.

Conclusion

Eswatini has reached a critical juncture in its democratic journey. The government’s repression of dissent, lack of accountability for human rights violations, and resistance to democratic reforms have created an environment of fear and injustice. It is crucial for the government to initiate an all-inclusive national dialogue, release political prisoners, and conduct independent investigations into the violence and abuses. The international community must continue to exert pressure and support regional bodies in their efforts to monitor the situation and advocate for human rights reforms. Eswatini shall not find peace until democracy prevails.