SACP supports the people of Swaziland struggling for democracy, strongly condemns the violence unleashed by the state against the people
2 July 2021
The South African Communist Party (SACP) stands in solidarity with and supports the people of Swaziland struggling for democracy, human rights, and inclusive development. The violence unleashed by the absolute monarch through the military and other organs of the security apparatus against the people is outrageous. The SACP conveys its deepest condolences to the families of protesters who have been killed by the autocracy and sends wishes of speedy recovery to those who have been injured.
The current protests, which began in May with the demand for an end to police violence, are justified. Mswati’s government responded to peaceful protesters with brute force. Unprecedented number of killings by the Swaziland police and military continue to be recorded.
A martial law is now practically in place in Swaziland, though not officially declared. The countrywide internet blackout, deployment of the army into communities to harass the people, the random killing of protesters, and other anti-democracy draconian measures, clearly show that Mswati is unwilling to give way to a transition to democracy.
The SACP strongly condemns the violence by the state and calls for a thorough independent investigation by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union and the United Nations. The investigation must be followed by those responsible held to account for the brutality they ordered or carried out against the people and for their other human rights violations.