Mlungisi Makhanya, leader of Eswatini’s main opposition party, is in critical condition after an alleged poisoning incident viewed as an assassination attempt. This situation has sparked accusations against the Eswatini government, which firmly denies any involvement. The backdrop of escalating political violence in Eswatini, including the assassination of other opposition figures, contributes to the urgency of these developments.
The leader of Eswatini’s primary opposition party, Mlungisi Makhanya, is currently in critical but stable condition following an alleged poisoning incident described by his associates as an assassination attempt. After the incident, which reportedly occurred on Tuesday at his residence in Pretoria, South Africa, where he was living in exile, Mr. Makhanya was admitted to a South African hospital. Penuel Malinga, the Secretary General of the People’s United Democratic Movement (Pudemo), claimed that this incident represents a clear assassination attempt orchestrated by the Eswatini state. In response, Alpheous Nxumalo, a spokesperson for the Eswatini government, refuted these allegations, stating, “It is not in our policy as the government to either kill or poison people who hold a different political view in our country,” asserting that Mr. Makhanya was not wanted in Eswatini and branding the claims as lacking evidence. Eswatini, governed by King Mswati III since 1986, is marked by the absence of a political party system, with the King ruling by decree and political participation prohibited in elections. Currently 56 years old, the King is set to take his sixteenth wife, amidst criticism of his extravagant lifestyle amidst the widespread poverty faced by the populace. According to Mr. Malinga, Mr. Makhanya was allegedly served poisoned food and confined within his bedroom by an unidentified cook, with his rescuers later gaining entry by breaking down the door. The police have been reported to be investigating the incident, with doctors expressing optimism for Mr. Makhanya’s recovery within approximately two weeks, although he remains unable to speak at present. The South African police have not yet commented on this matter. This incident follows the tragic murder of Thulani Maseko, a human rights lawyer and Pudemo member, who was shot at his home last year in front of his family. Despite government assurances of an investigation, no individuals have been held accountable for his death thus far. Prior to Mr. Maseko’s murder, King Mswati articulated remarks suggesting that activists instigated violence, implying a lack of sympathy for those affected. In the midst of political turmoil, over 46 individuals were reportedly killed by security forces during pro-democracy protests in 2021, highlighting the increasing tension and violence within the country.
Eswatini, a small landlocked nation in Southern Africa ruled by King Mswati III, is unique for its absolute monarchy, with political parties banned from participating in elections. King Mswati, who succeeded his father in 1986, has faced widespread criticism for his opulent lifestyle, especially given the poverty experienced by a significant portion of the country’s population. The context of political repression and recent violence against dissidents has highlighted a concerning trend of human rights abuses within the country. The opposition party, Pudemo, has been a vocal critic of the monarchy, and its leaders have faced threats, arrests, and violence, making this recent poisoning incident part of a broader pattern of intimidation. The international community has raised alarms regarding Eswatini’s human rights record, particularly in light of violent crackdowns on pro-democracy protests that led to numerous fatalities in recent years.
In conclusion, the poisoning of Mlungisi Makhanya, a prominent opposition leader in Eswatini, raises serious concerns about the safety of political dissidents under the current monarchical regime. The allegations of state-sponsored attempts on political figures underscore the oppressive political climate in the country, where dissent is met with severe repercussions. As investigations proceed, the international community continues to watch closely, hoping for accountability and a commitment to human rights in Eswatini.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
