The Unrest in Eswatini and its Historical Precedents

The People United Democratic Movement [PUDEMO] is a Swazi political party that has been banned by the government of Swaziland. PUDEMO advocates constitutional reforms for an egalitarian democratic governement.

More Peace Corps Volunteers arrive in Swaziland.

JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of human rights defenders in Eswatini, notably the murder of Thulani Maseko

The European Parliament having regard to Rules 144(5) and 132(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

1. whereas in Eswatini, the last absolute monarchy in Africa, human rights and fundamental freedoms are curtailed and political parties are outlawed;
2. whereas on 21 January 2023, Thulani Maseko, a prominent human rights and trade union lawyer and chairman of Eswatini pro-democracy organisation the Multi- Stakeholder Forum, renowned for his efforts in advancing democracy, the rule of law, good governance and human rights, was killed at his home just hours after King Mswati III made threats against members of Eswatini’s pro-democracy movement;
3. whereas in 2021, protests demanding democratic reforms began and the King’s government launched a brutal crackdown on human rights activism, retaliating with arbitrary detentions, harassment, threats and abductions, internet shutdowns and bans on protests; whereas several dozen people have been killed by the security forces; whereas mercenaries have allegedly been hired to repress growing dissent;
4. whereas Members of the Eswatini Parliament Mthandeni Dube and Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza have been in jail since July 2021;
5. whereas the security forces systematically intimidate trade unionists and violate fundamental workers’ rights; whereas the authorities have detained and allegedly tortured student union leaders; whereas other human rights problems in Eswatini include impunity for the security forces and discrimination against women and minorities;
6. Strongly condemns the killing of Thulani Maseko;
   
   
7. Calls for a prompt, independent, impartial, transparent and thorough investigation, under the auspices of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the UN, into the attacks against other pro-democracy and human rights activists and the alleged recruitment of mercenaries to help security forces repress opposition;
8. Condemns the widespread human rights violations in Eswatini and calls for the immediate release of all political prisoners – particularly MPs Mthandeni Dube and Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza – and an immediate end to the harassment, violence and pressure exercised against human rights defenders, trade unionists, pro-democracy activists and politicians;
9. Urges the authorities in Eswatini to respect, promote and protect human rights,including the freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly, and to allow the people of Eswatini to exercise their civil and political rights;
10. Considers the imprisonment of politicians and human rights defenders and the banning of trade unions to be clear contraventions of Eswatini’s commitments under the Cotonou Agreement; stresses that the country’s authorities must respect the principles of the International Labour Organization;
11. Urges the authorities in Eswatini to respect their commitments and launch, without delay, a comprehensive dialogue with all affected stakeholders to work towards national reconciliation and the protection of human rights, the rule of law and democracy, with the ultimate goal of lasting peace, mediated and supported by the Southern African Development Community;
12. Calls for the EU to review and, where applicable, suspend support programmes for Eswatini where funds risk being used for activities that violate human rights;
13. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Kingdom of Eswatini and to all relevant stakeholders and institutions.

Swazis First Democratic Front (SFDF) Shiselweni Regional Chairperson, Thabiso Khumalo has been attacked by arsonists soon after the Ntondozi Branch Launch. The SFDF leader managed to flee safe from the scene. [Swaziland Democratic News Facebook Page]

Above: Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov meets with Eswatini’s Foreign Minister Thuli Dladla.

Russia's top diplomat on Tuesday pledged security training to Eswatini, just days after the brutal murder of a leading human rights lawyer and opposition politician.

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov was speaking in the landlocked country, Africa's last absolute monarchy, a day after visiting neighboring South Africa and just two days after Thulani Maseko was shot.

"Russia is prepared to assist Eswatini in training of security personnel, improving food production and also assistance on other issues of mutual cooperation," Lavrov told reporters.

Following talks with Eswatini's prime minister and other cabinet members, he said 50 Eswatini security personnel were studying at Russian defense universities. [Moscow Times]

Mhlonishwa Mtsetfwa, Central Committee member of the Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS) was shot at close range from behind, around the waist and is listed in critical condition.

Mlandvo Khumalo popularly known as ‘Marcelino’ who was an alleged member of the pro-democracy underground forces was shot and killed by King Mswati’s soldiers for shooting at Ingatja (young warriors) on Saturday,his family has confirmed.

Speaking to this Swaziland News on Monday, *Siphiwe Khumalo, a sister to Mlandvo said as a family,they were fully aware that Mlandvo Khumalo was a freedom fighter and a member of the underground forces.

“They are now claiming that he was killed for shooting Ingatja.The truth is, he has been on their wanted list, that’s what he told us as a family before they killed him. As a family, we were fully aware that he was a freedom fighter and a member of the underground forces. He was killed in Matsapha when Ingatja was passing through,” said the sister to the deceased. [Swaziland News]

Large sectors of Swazi society have ground to a halt as the first day of a planned two day strike by transit workers has idled the nation that is so highly-dependent on public transit.

The strike has been linked to this date's scheduled bail bond hearing for the long-jailed pro-democracy parliamentarians Bacede and Mntandeni. A fleet of government-owned buses bearing armed soldiers for security are likewise being eschewed by riders.

Sibongile Manyike, the SWALIMO National Organising Secretary was attacked last night allegedly by Mswati's gangsters, they shot the house, car with the intention to kill. [Swaziland Democratic News Facebook Page]

Members of the newly formed Swazis First Democratic Front celebrate the birth of their party. Political parties are banned by the monarchial government, but the government is incapable of enforcing the ban.

In spite of the ban on political parties and their activities SWALIMO [Swaziland Liberation Movement] live streams their first anniversary celebration defiantly attended by hundreds of mostly young supporters. [Swaziland Democratic News Facebook Page]

Nhlangano Mayor Mashumi Shongwe has confirmed that his wife, who was a police officer at Nhlangano Police Station, was last night shot dead by unknown people. Our reporters are still gathering more information. [Times of Swaziland Facebook Page]

Police have confirmed that a group of unknown gunmen, aimed and fired multiple gunshots at Zibonele Army Camp last night. When they attended to the scene, after being called by the soldiers, they found that no one was injured. More updates will follow as our team is working on gathering more information. This publication also visited the camp. [Times of Swaziland Facebook Page]

Following threats to the lives of personnel from the Eswatini National Fire and Emergency Services (ENFES), who would attend to fire incidents, especially at night, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development met with the affected stakeholders and their management last Thursday. According to sources who are well-placed within the department, the meeting was attended by the Principal Secretary (PS) in the ministry, Clifford Mamba.

He said even when attending to emergencies during the day, some members of the public, who were not content about the ruling regime - Tinkhundla System of Government, pelted them with stones. 

However, he said as firefighters, they had agreed that during the day, they would take the risk and continue attending to emergencies because they were only pelted with stones, not guns. “At night it’s a different scenario as instead of stones, the attackers use guns and the recent incident happened at Pigg’s Peak Fire Station – where shots were fired when unknown arsonists torched the Central Transport Administration (CTA) and magistrates court,” he said.

[Times of Swaziland]

MBELEBELENI: The home of Chief Justice(CJ) Bheki Maphalala situated at Mbelebeleni was, in the early hours on Tuesday, burnt by members of the Swaziland International Solidarity Forces(SISF).

The CJ, who is manipulating the law to target political activists including the incarcerated of pro-democracy Members of Parliament(MPs) Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube is now wanted dead by the Solidarity Forces.

Reached for comments, the Commander of the Solidarity Forces confirmed the burning of the CJ’s home adding that Maphalala was wanted dead of alive.

“Maphalala must know that he is wanted dead or alive for ‘weaponizing’ the justice system against pro-democracy activists. Having said that, Mswati must know that the attack on Maphalala is part of our path to him, we want him and we will get him, it’s just a matter of time,” said the Commander of the Solidarity Forces.

A questionnaire was sent to Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala, however, he had not responded at the time of compiling this report.

Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala allegedly manipulated the law to target political activists,he is currently playing a role in ensuring that pro-democracy MPs who are facing politically motivated terrorism charges remain behind bars.

On another note, the Commander of the Solidarity Forces said they will target all judicial officers particularly Judges and Magistrates who are manipulating the law to persecute political activists. [Swaziland News]

Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini says the suspects who have been arrested in connection with violent acts like murder, arson attacks and armed robberies, among others, are allegedly spilling the beans. As such, he says members of the State security organs are following some leads to arrest the main sources of such acts. This, he said, during a brief press conference which was held at KM III International Airport before he departed to Niger. [Times of Swaziland Facebook Page]

Members of different political formations have already taken their seats at the High Court where they came to give the arrested SWALIMO and SWAYOCO members moral support. [Times of Swaziland Facebook Page]

KUKHANYENI: Residents of Kukhanyeni insulted soldiers who arrived at the scene after the burning of senior police officer Oscar Motsa’s home at eKukhanyeni on Thursday evening.

The soldiers were heard expressing concerns that the Solidarity Forces were now enjoying the support of the people.

“Inkinga labantfu sebane-support yalesive, ungakhandza kutsi bakhona lamakhaya abo, nyalo sekufuneka ema-drones(meaning: the problem here is that these Solidarity Forces now enjoy the support of the public, you may find that they are hiding here within their homes,” said one of the soldiers who were at the scene. [Swaziland News]

PIGG’S PEAK: Pigg’s Peak Rocklands suffered over R10million loss after its forests, truck were burnt, allegedly by members of the Swaziland International Solidarity Forces(SISF).

The incident occurred in the early hours on Wednesday and the company was punished for harassing and forcing its employees to report for duty on Tuesday despite an order from political leaders and the SISF Commander to halt all operations.

Members of the public participated in a protest on Tuesday, demanding democracy and the release of incarcerated pro-democracy Members of Parliament(MPs) Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube.

The protest is expected to intensify on Wednesday after public transport workers resolved to down tools, demanding the release of their colleagues who were abducted by King Mswati’s forces. [Swaziland News]

LOBAMBA:Mswati was forced to ‘hide’ at Lozitha after unknown men invaded Ludzidzini Royal Palace on Monday night and fired shots.

The King was supposed to travel from Lozitha to Ludzidzini around 11:35pm on Monday only to receive information suggesting that his security officers have been shot by gunmen.

It has been disclosed that a soldier identified as Sanele Mavimbela who was among the security officers at the gate was allegedly injured and subsequently rushed to hospital.

The identity of the gunmen could not be ascertained at the time of compiling this report,all Commanders of the three known underground forces units said they were not aware of the Ludzidzini Palace operation.

“We were not involved in this operation, please check the female Commander and the other unit,” said the Commander of the Solidarity Forces.

But this Swaziland News is in possession of electronic evidence where members of the Royal Guard, being the police and soldiers,were discussing after the shooting.

The electronic evidence suggests that after the shooting,there was a serious conflict between soldiers and the police who were providing security at the gate,members of the army blamed police officers for sleeping on duty leaving the soldier vulnerable. [Swaziland News]

Transit workers engaged in a wildcat strike have shut down transportation in Manzini and Mbabane closing businesses in it wake. Worker continue to be aggrieved over shooting of transit workers alleged to have be shot by OSSU Special Police forces. The police station at the Manzini Bus Rank has been mysteriously burned to the ground. [Times of Swaziland Facebook Page]

MANZINI: Nkosinathi Bhembe and Siyabonga Mashaba are among the public transport workers who were shot by Mswati’s police and soldiers on Thursday.

Muzi Nhleko, the National Organizer of the Eswatini Kombis, Buses and Allied Workers Union(EKABAU) confirmed the shooting of the public transport workers.

“It’s true, they were shot by the police and soldiers during the protest yesterday(Thursday) and are currently admitted at Nazarene Hospital,” said the EKABAU National Organizer.

A questionnaire was sent to Superintendent Phindile Vilakati,the Police Spokesperson,however, she had not responded at the time of compiling this report.

Public transport workers engaged in a protest on Thursday, demanding the release of their arrested colleagues.

The arrested workers who are facing assault charges were later released after public transport owners associations paid a collective bail of thirty thousand Rands(R30,000.00). [Swaziland News]

KWALUSENI:Salebona Simelane, the Registrar of the University of eSwatini(UNESWA)has written a memo informing staff members that the institution’s 2022 Graduation Ceremony has been cancelled.

“It is advised that due to unforeseen circumstances, the 2022 Graduation Ceremony of the University has been cancelled. The inconvenience caused is regretted,” reads the memo signed by the University Registrar,dated 08 November 2022

Reached for comments, Salebona Simelane, the Registrar of the University of eSwatini confirmed that the Graduation Ceremony has been cancelled, however, he asked not to share reasons behind the cancellation.

“It’s true that the graduation has been cancelled but I cannot share the reasons,” said the Registrar.

But insiders told this Swaziland News that the Graduation Ceremony has been cancelled as a result of the political unrest’s second wave,and the fact that Chancellor King Mswati was feeling unsafe to attend.

“The King is not feeling safe these days due to the ongoing political unrest, so he is not comfortable with attending the ceremony,” said the insider. [Swaziland News]

MBABANE: Prime Minister Cleopas Sipho Dlamini says eSwatini’s relationship with the United States(US) Peace Corps has seen the volunteers working with various communities in the rural areas, changing lives.

Speaking through Principal Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office Bertram Stewart during the swearing-in of eleven(11)volunteers at US Embassy, Ezulwini on Tuesday, the PM said since former US President JF Kennedy’s endorsement of the Peace Corp,the country has witnessed the program growing in leaps and bounds across all corners of the globe.

On another note, United States(US) Ambassador to eSwatini Her Excellency Jeanne Maloney said the partnership between the Peace Corps and Eswatini was worth celebrating.

“We celebrate the 1859 Volunteers and countless emaSwati men and women who have worked shoulder to shoulder across decades.With their host communities, who are equal partners in this dynamic relationship, Volunteers in Eswatini do a remarkable job on the ground,”’said the Ambassador. [Swaziland News]

A police officer who disturbed an operation at kaDumako Police Post in the Shiselweni Region was,on Friday evening, killed by members of the Solidarity Forces in a dramatic shootout.

Reached for comments, the Commander of the Solidarity Forces confirmed the operation that was conducted around 12midnight.

“It’s true that we invaded kaDumako Police Post,a police officer was killed,” said the Commander.

A questionnaire was sent to Superintendent Phindile Vilakati, the Police Spokesperson, however, she had not responded at the time of compiling this report.

But a member of the Solidarity Forces confirmed the killing adding that the officer stood in their way during an operation.

“The officer stood in our way during an operation and was subsequently killed,” said the member of the Solidarity Forces when speaking to this publication on Friday evening. [Swaziland News]

MATSAPHA:The army was deployed at Sigodvweni Police Station on Thursday night after members of the Swaziland International Solidarity Forces(SISF)fired a hail of bullets.

It has been disclosed that on the same night, the Solidarity Forces were conducting an operation at Kwaluseni(Matsapha)including an attack at pro-Tinkhundla Member of Parliament(MP) Sibusiso Mabhanisi Dlamini who falsely testified against incarcerated MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dude.

“It’s true that we invaded Sigodvweni Police Station and MP Mabhanisi’s home and fired a hail of bullets,” said a member of the Solidarity Forces whose name cannot be revealed for ethical reasons.

When this publication called MP Mabhanisi Dlamini for a comment, he insulted this journalist.

“Yeyi fus…..ki(sensitive language withheld for ethical reasons) wena mani, ungaphindzi ungishayele(meaning: Don’t call me again,” said the frustrated MP who is wanted dead by members of the Solidarity Forces.

But former Kwaluseni Constituency Headman(Indvuna YeNkhundla) Mthunzi Dlamini confirmed the shooting adding that the invaders were carrying heavy guns. [Swaziland News]

in Nhlambeni yesterday morning, something which has sparked a debate among many.
The PM doubles as the Minister of Police. The group of police officers, who are aggrieved over Phase II of the salary restructuring exercise, started gathering as early as 6:30am along the Nhlambeni-Sidvokodvo stretch of the Yithabantu Highway. The officers, who were driving personal vehicles, parked their cars on the off-ramp towards Nhlambeni Nazarene Primary School. [Times of Swaziland]

The Ministry of Finance has revealed that Eswatini will have 1400 new recruits from the three security forces. [Times of Swaziland]

Gun shots are believed to have disturbed four men who had gone to the house of National Deputy Commissioner of Police in the still of the night. [Times of Swaziland]

.

Times of Swaziland reports that 5 men carrying bombs have infiltrated the country.

Unknown people paid a visit to Alec Lushaba's home at Mdzimba, Lushaba went out of the country on an international trip with king Mswati. The unknown People allegedly Solidarity Forces found family members in the house, they let them go and decided to burn the house and 2 cars parked in the garage. Alec Lushaba is a former Eswatini observer jounalist now working with the newly established financial Times. [Swaziland Democratic News]

William Shongwe known as "Mawillis" was shot dead at his home last night by unknown people. Mawillis was a soldier under RCPU based at Nkoyoyo. A fellow soldier confirmed the shooting and he added that "Mawillis madoda, NO sebayasibulala manje Mncwii... inkinga yakhe Mawillis bekakhuluma kwasafutsi kungatsi lobusotja bucala ngaye" FUNDA THEMBI
[Swaziland Democratic News Facebook Feed]

MBABANE Members of the Swaziland International Solidarity Forces(SISF) invaded Sidvwashini Correctional Services on Wednesday night and killed a warder identified as Jobe.

Speaking to this Swaziland News in an exclusive interview on Thursday morning shortly after the operation, one of the SISF members who was leading the operation said they arrived at around 11:45pm, produced guns and ordered the officer at the gate to comply with their orders.

“We ordered the officer to comply, he promised to take all orders from us but later screamed and disturbed our operation. Upon hearing the screaming, the officers inside the Prison were busy calling other officers for a back-up and we decided to leave with the one officer. We drove with him to the Oshoek Industrial Site where he was killed and dumped. We wanted to kill all warders inside that Prison,” he said.

The member of the Solidarity Forces said they managed to seize a Gaelile assault rifle with 15 live rounds of ammunition. He said the guns they were seizing these days would be used in future operations.

The SISF member then mentioned names of senior Correctional Services officers who were allegedly leading the operation to assault the incarcerated Members of Parliament(MPs) that they would be all killed.
[Swaziland News]

"Chaos as police fire tear gas to disperse security guards who had gone to deliver a petition at the Guard Alert Security Services offices. The security guards who were accompanied by their union (SATU) threw stones and garbage in the middle of the road."

Two police officers have been assassinated in Manzini. Details unclear.

State security officers are alleged to have fired a hail of bullets at PUDEMO’s Panuel Malinga’s home, burn Ford Ranger.

MBEKELWENI: State security officers invaded the home of political activist Penuel Malinga at Mbekelweni on Tuesday night, fired a hail of bullets and subsequently burnt a Ford Ranger worth about R1million.

Reached for comments, Malinga, the National Organizer of the People’s United Democratic Movement(PUDEMO), confirmed the attack.

“It’s true, they arrived here and fired a hail of bullets. With my family, we ran for cover inside the house while they burn my Ford Ranger,” said the PUDEMO National Organizer.

The attack on the PUDEMO National Organizer’s home comes after the bombing of PUDEMO President Mlungisi Makhaya’s home.

18 October:BUHLENI – Yet another arson attack has been recorded, bringing such incidents to seven in a space of five days.

This time, unknown arsonists petrol-bombed Nkamanzi Umphakatsi, situated under Ndzingeni Inkhundla. Prince Gija is the Chief of Nkamanzi Umphakatsi where the arson was committed. Last Friday, not far from Nkamanzi, a house belonging to a warder was set alight, destroying property worth hundreds of thousands of Emalangeni. On the same morning, another arson attack was committed around Herefords near Buhleni, leaving a seven-year-old child burnt on one of the hands and property destroyed. Zombodze Emuva Inkhundla was also torched on Sunday morning while two pupils escaped with injuries after their home was set on fire.

It was gathered that at Nkamanzi, about six houses were targeted in the fire that was started just before 4am.  According to some of the residents, the arsonists fled after the incident. [Times of Swaziland]

16 October: MBABANE: Police officers and employees of the Fire Department appear to be on a strategic go-slow over issues of salaries. On Thursday, Fire employees marched to the Fire and Emergency Department Headquarters in Mbabane, they were demanding overtime allowances from government. [Swaziland News]

16 October: State agents alleged to have burned late PUDEMO President Mario Masuku’s home. On Sunday, State agents allegedly burnt the home of Mario Masuku, the late President of the People’s United Democratic Movement(PUDEMO). This comes a few weeks after this Swaziland News exposed Themba Ginindza, the King’s Governor who disclosed that they were training a squad that would  burn political activists and their properties. Reached for comments on Sunday afternoon, Wandile Dludlu, the PUDEMO Secretary General confirmed the burning of the late PUDEMO President’s home. [Swaziland News]

14 October: BUHLENI: Sabelo Tfumbatsi, the Commander of the Big-Bend Correctional Services has confirmed the petrol bombing of his home. It has been disclosed that the home is situated at Siganganyaneni, Nyakatfo along the road to Mphofu High School.

Eswatini is in the midst of a political unrest, Warders recently assaulted and almost killed incarcerated pro-democracy Members of Parliament Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube. [Swaziland News]

The NATCOM said as a police service, they bore witness to the shocking act of ill-discipline and defiance when a group of police and Correctional officers marched to deliver a petition to the Cabinet Offices on the now much-publicised matter of Phase II of the salary restructuring exercise. [Times of Swaziland]

MBABANE – Yesterday, there was chaos inside the Mbabane Government Hospital when students, donning colours of several political formations, set alight a police vehicle that had brought a corpse to the mortuary.

After an hour, a group of protesters arrived and they were reportedly from Manzini and this increased the numbers of the demonstrators. 

That is when the president of the Swaziland Youth Congress (SWAYOCO), Sakhile ‘Aw’viva’ Nxumalo, ordered that the march should begin en-route to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and then to the Prime Minister’s Office. SNUS was to deliver the petition to government demanding scholarships and jobs for all; however, the marchers were seen arming themselves with huge stones.

The police gave the marchers a two-minute ultimatum to disperse, but this only prompted the students to respond by throwing stones in the direction of the officers. As the students threw the stones, the officers ran for cover behind their Casspir, which began pumping out tear gas, through a pipe, in the direction of the demonstrators who were seemingly not willing to stop throwing the stones.

The officers regained their footing and began firing tear gas canisters at the protesters, even inside the hospital yard. After seeing that they were on the back foot, the students forced the hospital’s security guards to open the gate and ran helter skelter inside the premises. [Times of Swaziland]

The Hosea pupils are known to be rioting for the release of their Member of Parliament (MP), Bacede Mabuza, who was arrested together with Ngwemphisi MP Mthandeni Dube on terrorism-related charges. Violence was heightened since last week after revelations that the two MPs had been assaulted, allegedly by His Majesty’s Correctional Services’ officers at the Matsapha Correctional Facility. The Shiselweni Regional Education Officer (REO), Siboniso Gumbi, confirmed that the school head teacher had reported the fire incident. [Times of Swaziland]

It is alleged that Sayinile Sikhondze, a Headteacher at Mabhensana Primary School was providing information to Senior Superintendent Clement Sihlongonyane who is wanted by members of the Swaziland International Solidarity Forces(SISF) for killing civilians during the political unrest.

Reached for comments, the Commander of the Solidarity Forces said he was not aware of the operation. “I am not aware of this operation, I haven’t received any report about it,” said the Commander.

Speaking to this Swaziland News, Mbongwa Dlamini, the President of the Swaziland National Association of Teachers(SNAT) confirmed the death of the Headteacher. “It’s true, I’ve just received a call from the SNAT Branch confirming the death of the Headteacher, she was shot dead last night,” said the SNAT President.

Reached for comments,Ncobile Sikhondze, the daugther to the late Sayinile Sikhondze confirmed the shooting of her mother.She said her mother was in a conflict with some members of the community who threatened her such that she even applied for a restraining order.

“She was shot yesterday(Thursday) at 8pm. When we arrived home, we found one guy sitting on the door steps, the guy subsequently shot her. My mother was in conflict with some members of the community such that she even applied for a restraining order, it seems the people who threatened her have fulfilled their mission,” she said.

An investigation by this publication is ongoing to ascertain whether the Headteacher who was allegedly linked to  wanted Senior Superintendent Clement Sihlongonyane was shot by Solidarity Forces for being a spy or killed by the community members. [Swaziland News]

“Upon arrival they shouted “iso-ngeso” and pretended to be searching all inmates, they started beating the inmates but their main focus was the MPs”, said the insider.

The “eye for an eye” order was issued by King Mswati when addressing police officers during the Police Day at the Police College.

Speaking to this publication earlier, Ben J Simelane, the lawyer representing the MPs confirmed that his clients were assaulted. [Swaziland News]

MALINDZA: In the early morning hours on Tuesday, King Mswati’s State agents allegedly petrol bombed the home of Mlungisi Makhanya, the President of the People’s United Democratic Movement Movement (PUDEMO).

This comes a few days after this publication released ‘intercepted’ cellphone conversations where King Mswati’s Indvuna Themba Ginindza,revealed that they training a squad to burn political activists and their homes.

Reached for comments, PUDEMO President Mlungisi Makhanya confirmed the burning of his home.He said to prove that the mission was sponsored by the State, electricity was switched-off.

“It’s true, they bombed by home but there’s nothing we can do, it’s part of the journey to democracy, mafutsa endlela,” said the PUDEMO President.

Police Spokesperson Superintendent Phindile Vilakati had not responded at the time of compiling this report.

Ludzidzini Governor Themba Ginindza was exposed by this Swaziland News confirming that the State was training a squad to burn political activists and their properties, this is contained in an electronic evidence and or ‘intercepted’ cellphone conversations.

The wounded police officer survived the attack and is recovering. Government spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo claims the continued random shooting and killings of security officers has absolutely nothing to do with ‘politics of change’ or ‘political reforms.’

He stated that the attack was part of a franchised money-making criminal activity sponsored by faceless criminals who benefitted financially from this scheme at the expense of emaSwati although the perpetrator has not been arrested. He then contradicted his early claim that the attacks were non-political by stating that the attacks were part of the reasons that continued to derail the envisioned political national dialogue on political reform.

There has not been any arrest so far in any of the killings. [Times of Swaziland]

The two were part of a group of men alleged to have attempted to torch the police station. It was gathered that the men had started a fire leading to the police station and were further carrying a container with petrol inside. It was said that when they were seen by the police, shots were fired and the men ran away. The cops managed to track down some of the men, but investigations are still ongoing. It was gathered that the police have not arrested anyone in connection with the attempted arson. 

The news of the whole incident spread like wild fire at Hosea and pupils had planned a protest. Yesterday, Hosea pupils had been expecting police to come look for the duo and had promised to protest in the event they did. One of the pupils narrated that they had been expecting the police who, however, did not show up.  “The duo did not come to school either so lessons proceeded well,” remarked the pupil. Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati confirmed that there was a group of men who started a fire at the station and were chased by the police. [Times of Swaziland]

“We will use State weapons to oust King Mswati, only first aid equipment and food is needed for those who would stay in the Mountains.”

These were sentiments of the senior security officer who allegedly burnt the Mgazini Umphakatsi on Thursday evening.

The sentiments from the security officer come shortly after another senior Correctional Services officer Sergeant Bhekani Magagula and officer Phakamani Magagula disappeared with guns in demand for democracy.

Speaking to this Swaziland News during an interview, the senior security officer said the pro-democracy movement must not worry about the non-availability of guns as some security officers are now  against Mswati and willing to provide the guns.

“What is needed here is food, first aid equipment and our military doctors who will stay with us in the Mountains.This thing won’t take time, we will strike for a few days and take power, there are no security officers in the country.

Government spokespseron Alpheus Nxumalo responeded and dismissed the allegation claiming it was limited to the recent two correctional officers who disappeared with their service weapons, joined the underground resistance demanding democracy.

When pressed on why the king had not engaged in dialogue, Nxumalo said it was not possible until violence and protests ceased. Regarding the role of SADC and its possible intervention, Nxumalo said SADC should have no role and that the Eswatini government could handle its own sitiuation.

"A senior security officer allegedly burnt Mgazini Umphakatsi on Thursday evening. The security officer sent a message to this journalist on Wednesday saying he wanted to now fight for democracy while within the security forces. 

While making plans to grab guns, he said he would identify one Umphakatsi(Royal Kraal) and burn it as a sample to prove that he was serious with causing instability in the country.

“Tomorrow(Thursday) I am planning to burn Mgazini Umphakatsi,” said the security officer in a message sent to this journalist.

On Thursday evening around 1140pm, the security officer sent a brief message again saying “mission accomplished”.

He then proposed a voice conversation and urged the editor to ensure that the operation was kept a top secret as he was a trusted security officer of the King. [Swaziland News]

"TJANENI: 12 heavily armed unknown people Allegedly robbed BOXER SUPPER STORES, BUILDING SOCIETY ATM, FNB CASH CLASS AND FILLING STATION at Tjaneni. The unknown people fled to the nearest forest in Manganga after they were done with their mission, police came and they tried to follow them, they set alight the forest where the unknown people vanished but that didn't help them to find the unknown people.

"Police fired some shots to the forest and the unknown people responded with big machines like AK47 which made the police realise that they won't win but they might die. A helicopter was called to come and assist but it ended up leaving the scene because of the big machines that were used by the unknown people."

"Ntontozi Robert Simelane, the KaLiba Governor(Indvuna yeMphakatsi) has come out to confirm that the home of Indvuna yeMbali Ntombikayise Dlamini was burnt on Friday evening by unknown people.

“It is true, but I am on my way to assess the damage since I am very far from the royal kraal", he said.

Reached for comments, Ntombikayise Dlamini clarified that the burnt hut belonged to her mother in-law.

“The burnt hut belongs to my mother in-law. I'm accused of forcing imbali to attend the Shiselweni Umhlanga ceremony. I am a member of the Umhlanga committee and I only heeded to the King’s call and packed my bags to participate in the ceremony without forcing anyone,”she said.

Yesterday two armed correctional officers disappeared from Piggs Peak Correctional Centre..." with a service rifle and ammunition. It is alleged that they are going to join the people's forces." Swazi Correctional Services issued the following alert to the public. [Swaziland Democratic News Facebook Site]

SITEKI – A 42-year-old teacher yesterday was heavily assaulted, allegedly by police officers under the Operational Support Services Unit (OSSU).

The officers are based at Mafutseni Police Station. The teacher was taken to the police station on suspicions that he was recording a video and taking pictures of the police officers during their raid at his home situated at Mafutseni yesterday morning. According to the teacher, who requested not to have his name published, his sin was being found watching a video by the contingent of police officers, who were conducting raids in homes around the Mafutseni area. He suspects that this prompted the law enforcers to assault him on suspicions that he was recording them.

...police officers have been seen raiding homes around Ngculwini against the backdrop of a shooting incident of one of their own, Thulani Mthembu, who was fatally shot at by unknown gunmen at his parental home during the preparations of a cleansing ceremony of his late father.  [Times of Swaziland]

Dr Siphetfo Dlamini, the Secretary General of the Swaziland Liberation Movement(SWALIMO) says King Mswati tried to force Swazis to fear him but the people have overcome the fear and are now mocking him.

“Mswati is now a laughing stock, every Swazi is using any name to mock him because the people have overcame the fear”, he said. The SWALIMO Secretary General further mentioned that Swazis will continue to host cultural activities without Mswati adding that culture belonged to the people." [Swaziland News]

In his four-and-a-half hour submission, he, among other things, narrated the reason behind the call for an elected prime minister which landed him in jail.

Umbutfo Eswatini Defense Force (UEDF) and the Operational Support Services Unit (OSSU) arrived and reportedly fired gunshots to disperse the people. KaKhoza community police member Phillip Sithole said the road was blocked on Friday and Saturday night consecutively, and the area was filled with the sounds of gunshots. [Times of Swaziland]

Swaziland International Solidarity Forces (SISF) claimed credit for the attack and confirmed that when they fired shots at Zakhele Police Camp on Wednesday evening, they discovered that the police had fled with members of their families. “We fired shots and the bullets went through, only to find that the officers had fled. As per the previous warning, we will invade police camps and we urge police officers to vacate as a matter of urgency,” said the Solidarity Forces Spokesperson. [Swaziland News]

Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA) announces it will invoke Section 6 (4) of the Public Order Act of 2017 as they plan to march without seeking a permit from the local authority. They would gather at the DPM’s Office and deliver a petition before proceeding to the other government departments. On another note, 2nd Deputy Secretary General, Sikelela Dlamini said it was public knowledge that it was relatively impossible to host a protest march in the country as the local governments usually turned down applications to march along the cities’ streets, for alleged security reasons.

In a statement which the federation’s secretariat released yesterday, it said they noted with great concern the ever escalating costs of goods and services, with the recent one being oil products and bread. It said their analysis, having been informed by historical price hikes, revealed that there was no end in sight for such exponential price increases. [Times of Swaziland]

On Friday, the Spokesperson of the Solidarity Forces confirmed the shooting adding that one of the army vehicles was damaged. “They targeted two cars, one was shot next to Masudvwini Palace where the members of the Solidarity Forces had camped waiting for the army vehicles to pass through. One bullet was fired at the car.

The second one was shot at Mathangeni, only the driver was shot, two bullets were fired. We are still verifying if there would be deaths and will communicate accordingly,” said the Spokesperson of the Solidarity Forces. [Africa Press]

Police officer killed in his house.

NHLANGANO - A traffic police officer based at KaPhunga Police Station has been shot by unknown people.

The incident happened at around 7:30pm yesterday. Information sourced was that the police officer, who is originally from Mkhitsini, was in his house when he was shot. It is said that there were people who knocked on his door and he responded to the knock, only to be shot and the gunmen fled.

According to the sources, the officer did not reside at the police camp as there was a government house he used close to the police station. The officer quickly raised the alarm after the shooting, narrated the source. A comment from the police mouthpiece could not be sought as her phone rang unanswered and she had not responded to a message sent to her by the time of going to print. The state of the shot cop was still unknown by the time of going to print as he was still being attended to in hospital...This is the fourth police officer to have been shot in a space of about a week. While some quarters believe the shootings may have been politically motivated, no one has come out to claim responsibility and the law enforcers have not arrested anyone in connection with the shootings. Two shootings were fatal as two police officers had been laid to rest. [Times of Swaziland]

Meanwhile, an interview with a manager at one of the prominent furniture shops gathered that it had to close and some of its stores in Matsapha and Mbabane as it was deemed unsafe to operate. “We have also noted that there is not much presence of armed security forces, so we decided to close,” he said. On the hand, there were a number of police officers in riot gear in strategic points within the city and its outskirts. The police were inclusive of members of the Criminal Investigations Department (CIDs), Operational Support Services Unit (OSSU) and the Traffic Department. There were roadblocks at Mhlaleni and Moneni throughout the day. [Times of Swaziland]

A majority of businesses were closed due to fears of attacks which slightly affected the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country. When businesses halt operations, GDP decreases. An estimated E11 780 821.90 was lost by businesses yesterday for halting operations. This was mentioned by an economist who preferred to comment anonymously. He said this was due to the fact that there was less money movement in the country yesterday especially in retail and wholesale. He said yesterday’s situation differed from that of a national holiday identified in the country. “When it’s an official holiday, businesses are not affected because trade is halted compared to today (yesterday) when it is a normal working day,” he said. [Times of Swaziland]

This is a second police officer to be shot dead by unknown gunmen in less than 48 hours. The incident took place at Mathangeni, Matsapha in the Manzini Region yesterday at around 7pm. The other incident took place near Manzini Club traffic circle on Saturday at around 3am, where a female police officer Zinhle Mavuso was shot dead, while her colleague, Philani Mntungwa, was rushed to hospital with serious injuries.

A source close to the matter said the police officer was based under the Traffic Department in Matsapha Police Station, and is said to have left the police station with a colleague to attend to a supposed road traffic accident around Mathangeni. This was after the purported road traffic accident was reported through a phone call to the Matsapha Police Station.

The source said some of the police officers who were first to arrive at the scene were of the view that the road traffic accident report was a hoax. 
He said the assumption was that the call was supposedly made by the shooters as their plan was to ambush the law enforcers. 

PUDEMO members arrested.

SITEKI – People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) Lubombo Branch Treasurer Tenele Mashwama was yesterday arrested in a joint operation of the party.

They were arrested together with six other members by police officers from the Lomahasha and Siteki Police Stations. Tenele and Manqoba Kunene were arrested yesterday in the wee hours at around 5am, while Light Mkhabela and Manqoba Nyoni were apprehended at their respective homes on Tuesday morning.

“The death of Mpostoli and Sigubhu sparked the intensifying fight for democracy and that police allegedly shot one pupil. As Lomahasha residents, we will use peaceful means of protesting and don’t believe that the burning of tyres warranted the state to deploy soldiers at Lomahasha,” he said. Mkhabela further said if it called for seeking the help of the international community, he was ready to do so. Meanwhile, recently, police officers from Lomahasha Police Station fired four gunshots to stop a Nkalashane High School pupil from fleeing at his home. [Times of Swaziland]

In particular it cites "the US organisation National Democratic Institute had allegedly committed to contributing $22 million." ["NDI's senior government relations and communications manager Victoria Benner denied the organisation had ever provided funds to [Zweli] Dlamini [editor of the activist Swaziland News] and the pro-democracy forces. She said the letter containing the organisation's credentials and Barlow's signature was fake." Opposition groups likewise denounce the claims as fake.]

"According to records of meetings held in Mauritius and Kigali, Rwanda, in February and April by the alleged sponsors and instigators of the protests, large sums of money have been pledged towards the revolution.

"According to a classified report seen by The Sunday Independent, a private US equity investment firm that controls assets worth over $50 billion (R770 billion), which is known to the publication, has been identified as a significant funder of the revolution." [Organizations cited to be at the meeting have denied involvement. The US Embassy has also denied any role.]

The article displays an alleged program for the eSwatini Winter Revolution.

Nhleko is one of the founding members of the Eswatini Kombis, Buses and Allied Workers Union(EKABAU), an organization for public transport workers, his car was burnt at his home, Luyengo. “Sebashise imoto yami (meaning: they have burnt my car)”, he said. Swaziland News

The burning of the soldier’s house was confirmed to this Swaziland News on Wednesday evening by one of the Commanding officers of the Swaziland International Solidarity Forces(SISF). It is speculated to be in response to the alleged attack on Colani Maseko, the President of the Swaziland National Union of Students(SNUS)who was abducted by a battalion of Mswati’s soldiers on Wednesday, heavily assaulted and subsequently dumped at Matsapha Police Station. Times of Swaziland

It is speculated to be in respond to the attacked upon students and civilians including University students on Tuesday, Students Union President Colani Maseko by members of the army.

Reached for comments,the Commander of the Solidarity Forces confirmed that they invaded the Malagwane Police Post in the early hours on Wednesday, “We can confirm that our operation has resumed even with more decisiveness,”said the Commander. Swaziland News

The incident took place on Tuesday at around 10pm at Corporal Michael ‘Manjengeni’ Vilakati’s home at Ngculwini, in the Manzini Region. Worth noting is that, this happened a few hours after members of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) forced students to roll on the ground and assaulted them during a protest action at the University of Eswatini (UNESWA), Kwaluseni Campus. One of the affected students is Colani Maseko, the President of the Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS), who is a student at the Southern Africa Nazarene University (SANU). Times of Swaziland

Reached for comments, Colani Maseko, the President of the Swaziland National Union of Students(SNUS) confirmed the shooting adding that one of those who were injured was Linda Hlanze, a former University student. Times of Swaziland Cover says 4 are shot.

“One of the people who were shot is Linda Hlanze,a former student who is a member of the Swaziland Youth Congress(SWAYOCO)”,said the Students President. Swaziland News

The shooting manifested at Sithobelweni in the early hours on Thursday,King Mswati later deployed a battalion of soldiers with helicopters and the police to search for the Solidarity Forces, however, by that time, the forces were relaxed at their base station.

Insiders within the Solidarity Forces told this publication that in midst of the shooting, Sihlongonyane and other detectives were injured and ran away leaving behind a man who was then  captured by the Solidarity Forces. Swazi News

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A listing of the events of of 2021 now follows.

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Events Beginning with Jan. 2022 are now listed as they occur

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Almost 15 years later, the case is still pending and the accused must still comply with their bail conditions, which include reporting to the police once a week. Mail & Guardian

Percy Masuku (IRALE Coordinator), Mcolisi Ngcamphalala (Swaziland Youth Congress National Organiser), Lucky Dlamini (Swaziland Youth in Action member) and Goodwill Sibiya of Pudemo were arrested by police at about 2pm on Wednesday after attempting to start a protest at the Manzini bus rank.

Swaziland National Association of Teachers (Snat) president Sibongile Mazibuko, who had gone underground after spending all of Tuesday detained at the Mbabane regional police station said: “We had planned a protest at the Manzini bus rank but police started rounding up leaders very early this morning. There is a heavy police presence in the city and our comrades are being detained and prevented from organising.”

The Mail & Guardian had visited Mazibuko at a secret location where she was hiding from police. According to Mazibuko, union leaders had been apprehended en route to Manzini this morning at the 24-hour roadblocks the government had set up around the country.

Leaders under house arrest included Musi Mhlanga general secretary of Snat and the secretary of the Labour Coordinating Council which had called for the three days of protest that began on Tuesday April 12. 

The date was significant as it marked the 34th anniversary of the day King Sobhuza II — the father of the present monarch King Mswati III — had nullified the country’s onstitution, banned political parties and declared a state of emergency that persists until today. Mail & Guardian

In his application, he implored the court, among other things, to order the arrest of King Mswati III, mainly on grounds of the alleged theft of Tibiyo Taka Ngwane. Tibiyo is a royal investment company which, among other holdings, has a 53% stake in the Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation and a 40% stake at Ubombo Sugar in Big Bend. In 2012, it had assets of 1.39-billion emalangeni.

Sibiya had kicked a hornet’s nest. The police were detailed to track him down, which they did as he walked along the narrow path back to his homestead. Arrested in May 2019, he was charged with terrorism for declaring that he was a member of the banned People’s United Democratic Movement(Pudemo), the Communist Party of Swaziland, and a founding member of the virtually unknown Economic Freedom Guerillas. Mail & Guardian

Arrested in May [of 202], Ngcamphalala alleged in his bail application that he almost died when he was tortured for three hours at Mafutseni police station outside Manzini. Mail & Guardian

In May 2021 the mysterious death of a student triggered an outbreak of unrest in Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland. Sporadic eruptions of protests, demonstrations, and rioting, along with arrests, violence, and the suppression of dissent and media continue to today.

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