Mlungisi Makhanya, the leader of Eswatini’s main opposition party, is in critical yet stable condition after allegedly being poisoned, viewed as an assassination attempt by his allies. The government denies involvement, stating no evidence supports such claims. This incident follows a history of political violence in Eswatini, including the assassination of human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko, casting a shadow over the country’s political climate as calls for democratic reforms intensify.
The leader of Eswatini’s primary opposition party, Mlungisi Makhanya, is currently in critical but stable condition following an alleged poisoning incident that his associates claim was an assassination attempt. Mr. Makhanya has been hospitalized in South Africa after reportedly consuming poisoned food at his residence in Pretoria, where he had been living in exile from the monarchy of Eswatini. Penuel Malinga, the Secretary General of the People’s United Democratic Movement (Pudemo), has stated that this incident is indicative of a severe attempt on Mr. Makhanya’s life orchestrated by the state. In response, government spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo has denied these allegations, insisting that the government does not condone assassination or poisoning of dissenting political figures. He maintained that “Mr Makhanya was not wanted in Eswatini” and criticized the claims against the government as being without substantiation. The historical context in which these events are unfolding involves the longstanding rule of King Mswati III, who has been in power since 1986 and governs with considerable authority, effectively banning political parties from electoral participation. This scenario contributes to heightened tensions and risks for opposition leaders, exemplified by the assassination of human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko last year, a case which remains unresolved despite promises of an investigation from the government. Malinga asserted that Mr. Makhanya had experienced being served poisoned food and was subsequently confined to his bedroom by an unspecified cook. It was reported that aid responders had to forcibly enter his room to assist him. The South African police have yet to comment on the matter, but doctors anticipate that Mr. Makhanya, currently unable to communicate, will recover within approximately two weeks.
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is noted for being Africa’s last absolute monarchy, where political parties are effectively outlawed, and King Mswati III maintains strict control over governance. The nation has been marred by civil unrest as citizens advocate for democratic reforms, which was starkly illustrated during the 2021 pro-democracy protests that resulted in the deaths of at least 46 individuals due to security forces’ actions. Human rights advocates and opposition factions consistently face threats, with accusations of state violence and suppression of dissent becoming increasingly prevalent in the country’s charged political climate. Mlungisi Makhanya, as a leading voice for the opposition, exemplifies the risks faced by individuals opposing the current regime, particularly in the wake of recent violent incidents targeting dissenters.
The critical condition of Mlungisi Makhanya after an alleged poisoning incident raises serious concerns regarding the political climate in Eswatini, where opposition leaders face life-threatening risks. The allegations of state involvement in such acts of violence underscore the urgency for independent investigations and accountability for human rights violations within the country. This incident further amplifies the call for reform in Eswatini, as opposition figures adopt increasing vigilance in the face of persistent threats. As the world watches, the international community’s response could play a pivotal role in shaping both visibility and pressure regarding human rights in the nation.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
