The June 2021 Uprising and its Aftermath

In June 2021, Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, was rocked by widespread pro-democracy protests. Demonstrators called for political reforms, greater accountability, and an end to the absolute monarchy of King Mswati III. The response from the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) and the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force was swift and, according to numerous reports, disproportionate.

Security forces deployed tear gas, rubber bullets, and, critically, live ammunition against protesters and bystanders. Reports emerged of arbitrary arrests, physical assaults, and the targeting of activists and journalists. The scale of the violence prompted condemnation from international human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, which recently released a damning report titled “You’ll Die Waiting for Justice.”

The initial report by the Eswatini Commission on Human Rights and Public Administration in October 2021 documented at least 46 deaths, including two children, and 245 gunshot injuries. However, civil society groups believe the actual death toll may be significantly higher, potentially exceeding 100. The Commission’s report, while acknowledging the security forces’ involvement, stopped short of identifying individual perpetrators or recommending concrete steps towards accountability.

A Climate of Fear and Impunity

More than four years later, the situation remains largely unchanged. No member of the Eswatini security forces has been held accountable for the alleged abuses committed during the protests. Victims and their families have faced significant obstacles in seeking redress, including a lack of cooperation from authorities and a climate of fear that discourages them from pursuing legal action.

One woman, whose husband was shot and killed by police in 2021, opened a case with the authorities but has received no updates on its progress. Her experience is tragically common, illustrating a systemic failure to investigate and prosecute alleged wrongdoing. This lack of accountability has created a pervasive sense of impunity, emboldening security forces and further eroding public trust.

The killing of Thulani Maseko, a prominent human rights lawyer and advocate for democratic reforms, in January 2023, has further deepened the crisis. Maseko had represented many victims of the 2021 crackdown, providing pro bono legal assistance in cases that other lawyers deemed too risky. His assassination sent a chilling message to the legal community and left victims feeling abandoned and hopeless.

Did You Know?:

Escalating Repression and the Crackdown on Dissent

The government of Eswatini has not only failed to address past abuses but has also intensified its crackdown on dissenting voices. Activists, journalists, and political opponents have been subjected to arbitrary arrests, detention, and harassment. Peaceful assembly has been restricted, and critical voices have been silenced.

Several key stakeholders, including trade union representatives, political party officials, and human rights lawyers, have been forced to flee Eswatini to escape persecution. These exiles continue to advocate for democratic reforms from abroad, but their ability to operate effectively is severely limited.

Pro Tip:

What impact does the lack of accountability have on the future of democratic movements in Eswatini? And how can the international community effectively pressure the government to uphold human rights and ensure justice for victims?

Frequently Asked Questions About the Eswatini Protests