17 May 2021
Justice for Thabani protest at Sigodvweni police station is attended by about 2000 youth. Live ammunition is fired, two people are shot -- one person not protesting shot in the eye. Coroner Nonhlanhla Dlamini appointed to lead an inquest into Thabani Nkomonye's death. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
21 May 2021
Fairview police post burned after justice for Thabani protests. Police fire teargas, live ammunition during Thabani Nkomonyes funeral and other locations where protests are taking place. MP Magawugawu Simelane, Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Dube are in attendance at the funeral. See: Article 1, Article 2.
26 May 2021
Teachers protest and are blocked from delivering a petition over the governments decision to not renew contracts. See: Article 1.
1 June 2021
Nkilongo Inkhundla petition delivery. See: Article .
5 June 2021
MP Bacede Mabuza organizes a community meeting for Hosea Inkhundla where there are over 2000 residents in attendance and he teaches them about democracy. He gathers residents' views who demand a democratic government for an elected prime minister. See: Article .
19 June 2021
Ekukhanyeni inkhundla petition delivery, Mafutseni inkhundla, Sithobelweni inkhundla, Zombodze inkhundla, and Lomahasha inkhundla also had petition deliveries. Ntfonjeni inkhundla MP Sifiso “Sompisi” Magagula refused to sign a petition delivered by his constituents. See: Article 1, Article 2, Video 1 , Video 2 , Petition .
24 June 2021
The Acting Prime Minister Themba Masuku issued a decree by the King banning the delivery of petitions on grounds that they promote spread of COVID-19 and they promote anarchy. They offer an email where petitions should be sent to which is non-functional. At this point, 51 out of 59 tinkhundla have delivered petitions demanding justice for Thabani, political reforms and other demands. See: Article 1, Article 2, Statement .
26 June 2021
Pro democracy MP Mduduzi “Magawugawu” Simelane was placed under house arrest to prevent him from receiving a petition from his constituents. Checkers truck burnt at Siphofaneni, multiple shops also burned and looted after night protests. Some protesters assembled at Magagugawu’s home to offer him security throughout the night. Lugongolweni inkhundla protests, petition demands include job creating agricultural projects instead of the intended construction of a prison facility on arable land. More petition deliveries in about 15 Tinkhundla centers. See: Article , Poster , Post .
27 June 2021
Pro-democracy protests with tyres burning on the road at Mahwalala, Nkoyoyo. See: Video .
29 June 2021
Internet shutdown throughout the country. Protesters are still flooding the streets and burning three on roads to block them. Army deployed to cities as Mbabane. Acting Prime Minister Themba Masuku refuted reports of King Mswati III fleeing the country. Themba Masuku also defends the government 's decision to ban petitions. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3, Article 4 .
30 June 2021
Eswatini beverages burnt. See: Article.
1 July 2021
More killings of civilians being documented, some evidence of police dumping bodies in hospitals, and allegations of bodies being burnt to conceal evidence. Opposition records over 40 people dead, injustices almost at 200. South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation issues statement calling on security forces to show restraint. Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki, issues a statement on the unrest. See: Article 1 , Article 2 , Article 3, Article 4, Statement .
4 July 2021
SADC Troika visit to Eswatini on a fact finding mission. The Minister of Home Affairs Thuli Dladla is leading the Swazi delegation with people who are hand picked to represent civil society. Members of the PPA are told of the meeting and show up when the deliberations are over and the Minister makes an excuse that they could not get hold of the PPA on time. Hence, SADC promises to come back to hear the PPA and civil society groups' side. See: Article , Statement , Video .
6 July 2021
UN OHCHR spokeswoman Liz Throssell released a statement urging the Eswatini government to respect human rights while restoring order and calm in the country. Deputy Prime Minister Themba Masuku issued a statement alleging that damages from protest action amount to E2 billion which is equivalent to approximately $200 million. See: Article 1, Article 2.
9 July 2021
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) of South Africa stages a border blockade protest at Oshoek with thousands of South Africans in attendance -- from the African National Congress (ANC), other parties and unions in support for democratic reforms in Eswatini. EFF Eswatini members were shot at by police when they tried meet their comrades at the border. See: Article .
10 July 2021
Police are reported to be taking bullets from shot people at hospitals around the country in attempts to conceal evidence. See: Article .
11 July 2021
Thabani Nkomonyes mother’s car shot at by police, this is believed to be an assassination attempt but she survives. Ex Democratic Alliance MP Phumzile Van Damme in South Africa attacks Vuma reputation, Eswatini government's PR company, and it ends up terminating its contract with Eswatini after exposure and social media pressure (Twitter). See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3, Interview .
12 July 2021
Mbuyiseni Dlamini of Mehlwabovu shot by police and dies. See: Video .
14 - 15 July 2021
Pro- democracy MPs, Political Parties Assembly (PPA) appear in separate platforms urging citizens to boycott Sibaya. Pro-democracy MPs assert that they will not attend it, but say the decision to go should be each person, while PPA outright urges people to not attend. MPs still urge people to attend the protest and be peaceful. Arrival of Technical Fact-Finding mission of SADC Troika to speak with other civil rights groups other than government.
16 July 2021
King Mswati III calls Sibaya and very few people are in attendance, less than a thousand. There is a nationwide boycott of Sibaya as trucks are seen leaving tiNkhundla empty. He arrogantly addresses the nation and calls people calling for democracy as educated people who smoke weed. He boasts on his confidence in SADC Troika being on his side. He says everyone in Eswatini and everything in it belong to him. He shows no signs of wanting to call for negotiation. He appoints new Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini unconstitutionally because he is not part of the House of Assembly where a prime minister is to be selected from.On the ground, multitudes are in attendance at the March in Manzini signifying the boycott of Sibaya. Sibongile Mazibuko (NNLC President) and Mlungisi Makhanya (PUDEMO President) arrested as they March and later released. Police use live ammunition and teargas to disperse protesters. See: Video, Article 1, Article 2.
18 July 2021
Protests, burning of tyres occurs in Lomahasha as police officer Sehlakalo Dlamini shoots and kills 2 men during a funeral over the men not being in support of the regime.
20 July 2021
MPs Timothy Myeni from Nkilongo inkhundla and Simosakhe Shongwe from Mtsambama inkhundla join the three pro democracy MPs in publicly supporting democratic reforms.
24 July 2021
Magawugawu, Sibongile Mazibuko blocked by police when trying to get to a funeral of victims of police brutality ( Mcisi Sgubhu Nyoni ) in Lomahasha. PUDEMO President Mlungisi Makhanya makes it, siding with about 5000 mourners.Lomahasha MP Ndumiso Masimula is also in attendance and shows support for pro democracy MPs.
25 July 2021
Pro democracy MPs Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube arrested and charged under the Suppression of Terrorism act of 2008.See: Article.
27 July 2021
National Police Commissioner Tsintsibala Dlamini reports that there have been 34 casualties from unrest and 697 arrests have been made.
28 July 2021
Malindza umphakatsi burnt in the middle of the night.pro democracy MPs moved from Sidvwashini to Matsapha Maximum prison.
29 July 2021
Thousands of people gather in Mbabane bus rank to protest for democratic reforms and demand the release of arrested pro democracy MPs.live rounds and teargas are fired at protesters to disperse them, causing a baby to inhale tear gas and die. MPs appear in court and their bail hearing is reserved by high court judge Mumcy Dlamini on grounds that MPs are a flight risk.
6 August 2021
TUCOSWA March to parliament to demand an Investigation on killings of unarmed civilians in June. protest at Hosea inkhundla joined by the elderly, demanding release of pro democracy MPs.
9 August 2021
Judge Mumcy Dlamini denied bail application of pro democracy MPsnight burning of tires on roads in Matsapha and surrounding areas as protesters call for release of arrested pro democracy MPs.
10 August 2021
Protests in Hosea inkhundla demanding release of pro democracy MPs with roads blocked and police deployed.
11 August 2021
5 schools under Hosea inkhundla closed as protests demanding for release of their MP Bacede intensified.
12 August 2021
Velebantfu High school burnt.
23 August 2021
Army Commander Jeffry Shabalala resigns following exposure on Swaziland News by Cebile “Cece” Shongwe ( a resigned police officer who skipped the country to tell the truth and had a relationship with the Commander) of conversations where he tells her the order to kill civilians, arrest pro democracy MPs came from the KIng. Pro democracy MPs Bacede and Mthandeni appear in court. It later comes out that according to Cece, in RFM there were more than 100 dead bodies brought that were shot during protests, which means there are plenty unaccounted for deaths in the unofficial over 70 people number gathered by democratic forces.
27 August 2021
Bail application of MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube postponed to September 7.
29 August 2021
MP Magawugawu joins forces with Political parties and trade unions and all announce plans for a global week of action from 6-10 September. This is the first public show of solidarity of the PPA and pro democracy MPs even though they were said to be working behind the scenes together before. Meetings joined by- Mduduzi “Magawugawu” Simelane (Pro Democracy MP in exile), Mlungisi Makhanya (PUDEMO president), Sibongile Mazibuko (NNLC president), Nombulelo Motsa (EFF President), Quinton Dlamini (TUCOSWA), Vusi Shongwe (SPLM), Thandaza Silolo (People’s Front), Mbongwa Dlamini (SNAT Secretary General), Xolani Maseko (SNUS),Lwazi Makhunga (SAS), Richard Vilane (Hosea Inkhundla).
3 September 2021
A man was killed by police for allegedly having weed.
4 September 2021
About 200 maidens cut reeds, which is one of the historic lows in attendance; the government says it’s due to COVID 19. Police officer who is OSSU top cop Enock Zulu granted bail after being arrested for allegedly burning OK foods during protests in June.
5 September 2021
Burning of cash building.Umhlanga hosted with few maidens, around 300, drastic drop from thousands of recent years.
6 September 2021
Boycott of Independence Day, marches planned for all consistencies on the ground, global diaspora hosting seminars, plus various messages of solidarity from all over the world, SA parties (ANC,EFF,COSATU.. ) create plans of solidarity. The Eswatini government hosted a reconstruction fund launch of 1 billion rands. The major contributors: Tibiyo, Standard Bank, Eswatini Sugar Association including RES, Stanlib, Montigny, Balondolozi Asset Managers, Letshegho financial services, Eswatini Bank, MTN, PSPF,Eswatini Royal Insurance Corporation, EPTC, Dalcrue,Happy Valley Casino,Status Capital Building Society, Eswatini Building Society, EEC, FINCORP, MVA Sincephetelo Fund, Inhlonhla Asset Managers, ESWC, Government of Taiwan. Taiwan gave 330 million and the second largest donor was MVA 3.5 million. The King directly responded to comments made at the family meeting by Magawugawu saying he loves democracy and ESwatini practices democracy, that the masses basically support him. He said democracy is not torching and burning but is dialogue, which he still fails to provide. He used language saying people who burn things are not meant to be sat and have dialogue with because they belong in hell. He accused pro democracy people of being liars and bad interpreters of what democracy means. Two Southern Star trucks woke up burnt. Of note, the US embassy, UN Eswatini, United World College of Southern Africa did not issue happy independence congratulatory messages as they usually have done in previous years. There were various on the ground protests notably in Nhlangano with CDE Make Sibongile Mazibuko addressing masses, Nkilongo, Lomahasha. EmaSwati in the diaspora global movement hosts a global seminar with solidarity messages from notably COSATU, ITUC, SAFTA in SA. Various protests in the diaspora. See: Article
8 September 2021
The pro-democracy MPs' case was postponed again to 14 September.
9 September 2021
Border blockades in Lavumisa, and Oshoek led by United Eswatini Diaspora, SADTU, SACP, COSATU with others like ANC. Great attendance of hundreds of people.
10 September 2021
March to UN offices. Joined by hundreds of youth and there was no resistance from the police. PPA was able to deliver their petition to UN resident coordinator Natalie Ndongo Seh. See: Article.
20 September 2021
Mangololo delivers a petition to UN offices in Eswatini, countering opposition efforts on saying they want the current monarch and government.
21 September 2021
Army and police proposed to be deployed in schools due to students protesting.
22 September 2021
More protests and boycotts by students around the country demanding democracy, better quality education. Around 10 schools protest on the same day. See: Article.
23 September 2021
Planned March to US embassy cancelled with government citing permit requirements.
24 September 2021
Hallelujah banners vandalized in various places. Umcenge milk writes hallelujah on its products and sales drop drastically. The US embassy releases a statement supporting petition delivery only during working hours and when all permit requirements are met.
30 September 2021
Multiple school strikes throughout the week. ILlovo workers strike.
1 October 2021
Petition delivery to the US embassy attended by over 10 000 people from all over the country. More people joined the front lines like Timothy Myeni Nkilongo MP. We see all democracy forces marching side by side: EFF,PUDEMO,NNLC etc. One protester is shot but Thulani Maseko of multistakeholder forum helps together with Eswatini solidarity fund. More people are pledging to help, they also vow to help any other people. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
8 October 2021
Petition delivery to ministry of labour by youth. SNUS was organized and attended by over 2000 people. Times released information that there is an educational crisis looming with over 40 schools protesting.
11 October 2021
Schools are set to open in all grades but there is a rise of boycotting and protests by students in various schools. One primary school child shot. Times of Swaziland reveals there to be about 82 schools closed from this unrest. See: Article.
13 October 2021
Bus conductors shutdown Manzini and Mbabane bus ranks, others at Piggs Peak, Malkerns-Luyengo. The army is deployed and conductors do not run away when they fire warning shots. In Siteki, about 3000 Lugongolweni residents and PPA March to the police station for a petition delivery on the brutal murder of Nhlanhla Kunene. He was shot by police after being seen driving after curfew. Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini appears on CNN and continues to downplay the situation in the country, alleging there are no soldiers in the streets and that only 20% of the population is demanding reforms.
14 October 2021
Kombi conductors continue strike in major cities of Mbabane, Manzini and Mahlanya-Malkerns. Their demands are still on freeing political prisoners, minimum pay increase to E4 000 and others. 3 conductors shot. One 17 year old school kid from Shewula high school was shot. A video of an OSSU officer shooting an unarmed youth in broad daylight is shown, and the officer goes on to kick at where he shot the youth. Some protestors visit police stations, notably, hundreds visit sigodvweni police station in regards to an arrested bus conductor. Shewula police post was set on fire and a kombi belonging to a cop who shot a student was also burnt. Some roads are blocked with gates, burning tires and others start “toll gates” where people have to pay to pass.
15 October 2021
Pro democracy MPs Mthandeni and Bacede are charged as guilty of murder and inciting the violence that occurred in July and are charged with the suppression of terrorism act of 2008, they are charged with sedition and inciting disrespect on the king. Protests continue and intensify in multiple places. Mbabane, Manzini, Malkerns, Piggs Peak, Nhlangano towns have no public transport operating as public transport operators continue to protest. Four people are reported shot but there are reports of great shootings in Siteki town. About 2000 protestors back in Siteki town calling for Justice for Nhlanhla Kunene. Protests dispersed with teargas and live rounds.Two police officers beaten and one had his gun taken from him. The King comes to open Mbabane referral hospital despite protests and people being shot in the same town. His ceremony is heavily guarded by security, he calls those protesting and demanding change as dagga smokers and drunkards who he says he will not negotiate with people who are not sober minded. He mocks pastor Justice, who earlier on called for reforms but changed tune to support the King, and says he is a fake pastor who deserves to have some sense beaten to him. Toll gates continue by some people in some places. Reports of internet shutdown happen during the day for only a few hours. Panic buying and fuel loading happens as shortages loom. MR8 closed off between Matata and Big Bend. Shots at residents of Goboyane in Big Bend. Mahlabaneni in Big Bend assaulted. Victims treated at Bholi Clinic. Pupils from Charles Wesley High School protesting were dispersed through beatings and tear gas fired. Students hid in bushes while making efforts to locate each other. Questions of abuse arise regarding a young boy, dressed in oversized clothes who formed part of Mswati’s entourage.
16 October 2021
Amnesty International South Africa condemns the government's decision to deploy an army in schools. Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini announces indefinite closure of schools and says only scholars writing international exams will continue to do so. Various images of one child usually seen at the Kings side during some events circulate as the child is seen as poorly dressed. One video shows the child sitting down away and not being fed while the royal family sits in chairs and dines
17 October 2021
Transport Operators circulated communication that the public transport strike continues on Monday 18 October 2021 despite reports by the Times of Eswatini that the public transport strike has been called off. Oil Spilled on Pine Valley Road in Mbabane South African Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Blade Nzimande calls for the democratisation of Swaziland and extends the call to all political parties and all progressive forces in the region including SADC. Nzimande is also the General Secretary of The South African Communist Party.
18 October 2021
Bhunya Buy Cash Hardware Store which is owned by the Minister of Agriculture Jabulani Mabuza, an MP who is silent on pro democracy, was burned down. Bhunya: Protesters block roads using stones and roll boulders into the road while security forces look on curiously. Hluti road in Mantambe, Hosea blocked with large stones scattered all over the road. Public transport workers reject pleas by the government to return to work. Leading to a huge standstill countrywide unless anyone has access to a car, shops closed in most places. News that 18 MPs have met to demand urgent parliamentary sitting. Slow internet connection experienced. Lawyer Thulani Maseko as the Chairperson of the MSF (Multistakeholder forum) reports that they are experiencing intermittent internet connection while addressing the nation on the resolutions of the PPA on planned activities. Multistakeholder forum, consisting of PPA, MP Magawugawu, various organizations address the nation and announce that they will hold a state of the nation address on a weekly basis to allow the nation to know what’s happening. On plans for the week: people are advised to bring the country to standstill starting 20 Oct where civil servants will demand CoLa by protest action, womens groups will protest in all regions, public transport workers continue on strike, the trail of the 2 MPs will be going on. There is clear iteration of a five point plan formulated:
19 October 2021
Six people shot by armed forces (reported by Times of Eswatini). Lomahasha youth and parents march to the police station demanding release of their kids who were detained after being suspected of burning Shewula police station. There are reports that multiple children between 12 and 23 were taken into custody and charged with terrorrism. Public Sector Associations get permission from the Mbabane City Council to march and deliver their petition to the Ministry of Public Service on 20 October 2021. On the contrary, NATCOM releases a statement banning the march on that same day. PSAs vow to go ahead as they have the legal papers allowing the march. Government issues a statement, through Sabelo Dlamini, responding to the UN Secretary General's statement and says they are in complete adherence to international human rights charters and allege the army is deployed to protect those who are unwilling to engage in protest action.
20 October 2021 - Black Wednesday
Public sector unions from all over the country were being ferried to Coronation park as public transport workers made themselves solely available for this, despite protesting. Two buses coming from Piggs Peak were stopped at around Nkoyoyo by police and in one bus, there is a video of police going into the bus and throwing teargas and anyone running out is shot at. Hundreds of people reported to have been hiding in bushes after running away from the armed forces and having no access to transportation with the ongoing public transport worker strike. At the High Court, the two pro democracy MPs, Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube are brought in for trial. Nine MPs from parliament are seen attending in solidarity: Timothy Myeni - Nkilongo, Manzi Zwane- Nhlambeni, Nelson Mamba- Timphisini, Zakhele Magongo- Nkhaba, Marwick Khumalo- Lobamba Lomdzala, Bhekitje Dlamini- Sithobela, Simosakhe Shongwe- Mtsambama, Sandla Fakudze- Gilgal, Sandla Fakudze- Sontongo. On the MPs matter, the court case was postponed to 16 November 2021 on consent of both counsels where Thulani Maseko, one of the MPs lawyers, said the charge sheet given was not enough for the MPs to plead and needed statements from the MPs with relation to the added charges. There is a countrywide internet shutdown throughout the day and MTN Eswatini sends a message to customers that it received a directive from the regulator to suspend access to Facebook until further notice. There are roadblocks all over the country, some roads blocked by protestors burning tires, placing large stones on the road to make it hard for people to continue their activities. Shops are closed in almost all places. Baceth hardware belonging to pro democracy MP Bacede Mabuza burnt at Sidvwashini and suspects unknown, but reports of some people seeing a car going up and down before it was up in flames. Ka- Boyce High School burnt and Swaziland News later reports eye witnesses seeing police set a school building on fire in order to make it seem as if it was protestors doing so. Moreover, the same police were seen shooting from that building at civilians in nearby Msunduza. There are widespread videos of teargas being fired in Coronation Park, other places in the country. There is a VERY heavy armed force, OSSU and police presence in Mbabane.There is a drone flying over Mbabane to help state army track civilians. Police are seen in videos shooting at unarmed civilians and picking up bullet shells to cover up evidence, at some places there are reports of police trying to remove bullets from shot people. Times of Eswatini reports 14 people shot, while there are reports of 7 people dead. SNAT reports around 50 people in Mbabane Government Hospital with gunshot wounds, some in critical condition, there is blood shortage, pain medicine shortage.The nurses Union reported 30 health care workers being shot and treated. Some reports from civilians on the ground say the death toll and survivor toll is much higher as these are reports from only parts of the capital city. There are images of kids as young as 7 who were tear gassed and beaten by the army. Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union issues a statement resolving to not treat any people from the armed forces as retaliation. SADC Chairperson Cyril Ramaphosa says his hands are tied on the Eswatini matter because SADC member states have not yet reached a resolution on the course of action. It is alleged that member states have been arguing for weeks over wording of a statement in regards to the unrest due to divisions in the community (Times of Eswatini). Later in the day, it is reported that SADC Troika is making its way to Eswatini and will arrive on October 21. There is almost no response from the state, on Eswatini National TV (Eswatini TV), Nondumiso Vilakati and Phindile Vilakati spread a narrative that it may be people from outside Eswatini ‘foreign mercenaries’ who are shooting at unarmed civilians. Government issues a report with pictures of how they have allocated E64 million in funds to start up finance for a Rural Electrification Fund, launched by Minister of Natural Resources Peter Bhembe. This transpired while everything else was going on in the background. See: Article 1, Article 2
21 October 2021
Healthcare workers from 3 major hospitals in the country downed tools after police shot some nurses on 20 Oct protests. NAPSAWU records 30 shot workers during protests so far, adding to the numbers from 20 Oct protests. Prince Simelane, Minister of Housing and Urban Development says at a press conference that the government is banning all municipalities from issuing permits to protest indefinitely to avoid more COVID 19 risks. This is done against the Public Order act of 2017. Transport workers announce, through their acting general of Swaziland Transport Communication and Allied Workers Union, Sticks Nkambule, they are returning to work as a breather, and their return will not be for long. SADC Troika envoy consisting of Jeff Radebe, Mashego Dlamini, Elias Magosi and Maropene Ramakgopa, forming representatives of South African government, Namibia and Botswana, arrive in Eswatini and meet with King Mswati III. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
23 October 2021
Nurses at Piggs Peak Government hospital, Nhlangano Healthcare center turned down tools and patients turned back as they protested. Council of Swaziland Churches releases a statement condemning the violence and social media blackout experienced. A bar belonging to MP Bacede Mabuza and Thulani Maseko is burnt to the ground in Bhunya. Members of civil society meet with SADC Troika envoy. King Mswati releases announcement through Indvuna Themba Ginindza that he will convene a Sibaya dialogue after Incwala, which means, February 2022. SADC Troika Chairperson Cyril Ramaphosa supports a dialogue call through Sibaya that has been called on by King Mswati III.
24 October 2021
Civil society rejects Sibaya as a formal dialogue avenue. This includes, Multistakeholder Forum, IDEAL,September 6th movement. Arrested pro democracy MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube table demands through their lawyers (CHSM Attorneys and TR Maseko Attorneys), that they want all exiled Swazis including MP Mduduzi Simelane, and all arrested Swazis on terrorism charges and political charges released and charges dro0pped unconditionally before any dialogue takes place. This is their condition before any dialogue occurs to include all groups. Of note is that Mangololo accepts this proclamation as giving all stakeholders time to prepare.
25 October 2021
TUCOSWA and MultiStakeholder Forum deliver petitions to parliament while the House is in session. The petition reiterates the five point plan, their rejection of Sibaya as a form of dialogue because it has always failed in the past. Part of concerns with Sibaya is that people cannot call Sibaya except for the King, people do not choose the agenda, it is a traditional and not a political forum, there are no minutes of the meeting, people have no control over implementation of what is discussed, it is a hostile political platform. They state in their petition that they cannot wait for SIbaya next year because of the ongoing brutality on unarmed civilians, Incwala is of little significance to everyone else in the country, they cannot wait on the task of nation building In the House, MP Marwick makes a motion calling for the government to end police brutality, MP Sandla Fakudze of Gilgal calls for action towards police brutality and the opening of an independent inquiry to those police responsible for shooting unarmed protestors. The four largest soccer teams in Eswatini; Mbabane Highlanders, Moneni Pirates, Mbabane Swallows and Manzini Wanderers air their grievances on security forces brutality and vow to boycott games with army or police teams. MDC Alliance of Zimbabwe, headed by Nelson Chamisa, releases a statement of solidarity with the Swazi people in their five point plan for a democratic dispensation. Minister of Health Lizzie Nkosi releases government statement saying nurses will attend to everyone and should not discriminate according to any biases, she states that it is unethical to not offer services to certain groups -- this is after nurses have resolved to not treat armed forces, police and their immediate relatives.
26 October 2021
SWADNU members deliver petition to Manzini Police regional headquarters on police brutality against nurses. Nurses are demanding apology from NATCOM.
27 October 2021
Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini calls a press conference to advise TUCOSWA from protesting especially since there has been announcements on hosting a national dialogue after Incwala.
28 October 2021
JS clothing textile workers protest for better wages as part of wider ATUSWA protests. Some workers assaulted by armed forces and rolled in mud at Lonhlupheko.
29 October 2021
Mankayane Government Hosital nurses deliver petition to the police post demanding an apology from NATCOM on policy brutality against nurses. MTN Premier league games postponed due to concerns by four top teams on playing with members of the police and armed forces. Human Rights Commissioner, Sabelo Masuku (son to Deputy Prime Minister Themba Masuku), releases preliminary report from June-July unrest. His report states 46 deaths, that only 291 people were shot including 19 children. These numbers are low compared to that of civil groups. The report admits that it did not find out all information due to police withholding it and numbers are based on hospital reports. They admit that security forces used deadly force. Government releases forms to be signed by students certifying that they will not be involved in any protest activity before returning to schools. See: Article.
30 October 2021
King Mswati III hosts National Year end prayer service at Mandvulo Hall. There is less viewership online. Luve police post burnt down. Police shutdown planned prayer service for Bacede and Mthandeni
02 November 2021
Cyril Ramaphosa meets King Mswati III on a one day working visit to Eswatini to discuss the way forward from SADC Troikas visit. The visit concludes with a decision that the SADC Secretariat will work with Eswatini government to draft the terms of negotiation Nurses at Mbabane government hospital deliver petition to the police and continue picketing over food shortages and medication shortages. Workers at Rocklands Mill pocket over managements decision to implement a no work no pay rule. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
03 November 2021
Parents at some schools refuse to sign consent forms stating that their children will not engage in protests. These include: St Mark's Primary School, Mbabane Central High,Woodlands High,Mafutseni Primary. St Marks High School parents are seen dumping these consent forms after a meeting with the school administrators. At an event where the Minister of Health arrived at Mankayane Government Hospital to hand over cervical cancer equipment, nurses and doctors are found picketing and they deliver the petition to the minister who responds that she is only there to unveil and did not expect this. She says these things are out of her hands/beyond her control. See: Article 1, Article 2.
04 November 2021
Nurses at Mbabane Government hospital, Piggs Peak government hospital continue to picket over food and drug shortages. There are reports of people being admitted in hospitals with no food being given to them and having to buy pills from pharmacies. Judge Justice Mavuso grants R15 000 bail to four pupils held for allegedly burning Shewula Police Post. Council of Swaziland Churches holds a press conference expressing solidarity with the people of the country in their fight against brutality. See: Article.
07 November 2021
Jan Sthole book launch, the book talks about the last days leading to his death and his vision for the future of Eswatini. In the book, he promises emaSwati that freedom will be achieved. Bheki Mabuza, pro-democracy MP Bacede Mabuza's brother, donates R200 000 to victims of policy brutality through FODSWA which is an organization for disabled people in Eswatini. Pro-democracy MP Mduduzi “Magawugawu” Simelane and PUDEMO President Mlungisi Makhanya assert that they are giving the King 5 days as pro democracy groups to release the incarcerated members of parliament or they will face escalated tensions. See: Article 1, Article 2.
08 November 2021
The Universal periodic review of Eswatini takes place through the UN Human Rights Commission in Geneva. Justice Minister Pholile Shakantu asserts that the political unrest in the country was a result of socio-economic, political and criminal factors together with the COVID-19 Pandemic. She cites the preliminary report of the Human Rights Commission released on 29 October 2021. She says the government is assessing the situation for further action. Justice Minister Pholile Shakhantu represented the country and presented it third cycle report, in which she proclaimed that the country was committed to ensuring a “conducive environment for the enjoyment of fundamental rights and freedoms by emaSwati”, and that it had made progress, including “amendment of the 2008 Suppression of Terrorism Act”, in which she claimed had definition of ‘terrorist act’ had been narrowed. See: Statement
09 November 2021
Protesting Illovo workers asking for better salaries are ambushed by the police who use live ammunition against them. One person is reported to be injured. Ntandweni residents near Sikhuphe airport block Inyatsi construction trucks from entering and exiting the quarry mine as they demand compensation from the government from their damaged homes. See: Article.
10 November 2021
Galp employees deliver petitions to the Prime Minister's office over job losses during the pandemic and other grievances. Nurses at Mbabane government hospital protests continue as Health Minister Lizzie Nkosi opens the neonatal wing. There are food shortages and drug shortages. One police officer has reportedly died from a spider bite because of the lack of medication. See: Article 1, Article 2.
11 November 2021
Sithobelweni Healthcare workers protest against police brutality on nurses. Opening of schools is postponed to 23 November 2021 again as parents refuse to sign “no protest” forms and schools are said not to be ready, the government is also unprepared. Secretary General of Eswatini Correctional Services Staff Association,Mzwandile Dlamini, resigns his job as a warder due to the ongoing killing of unarmed civilians. See: Video, Article 1, Article 2.
12 November 2021
Professor Thuli Madonsela, former Public Protector of South Africa, is invited by United Eswatini Diaspora to speak about the situation in Eswatini. Of note, she says she was some of the founding members of PUDEMO. She supports the calls for democracy for emaSwati, mentions that killing of unarmed civilians is a violation of international laws.
13 November 2021
More than 200 residents of Malindza protest and demand compensation from the King after there has been none since they constructed King Mswati III Airport. Residents are said to be sleeping in the bushes for over two weeks. They were to receive compensation on this day but they were instead told to form a committee to deal with this matter.Ncandweni residents camp next to the quarry mine as they demand compensation from the government. See: Article.
14 November 2021
Hlobsile Zulu, PUDEMO member, is abducted by police at Nhlangano. Various African countries are invited to a Summit for Democracy by USA President Joe Biden and Eswatini is not invited. MP Mduduzi Simelane removed as member of parliament as section 98(1)( c) of the constitution is invoked. He is cited as being absent from parliament for more than 20 sittings. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
16 November 2021
The trial of the two MPs, Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube begins. The two lawmakers are facing “terrorism” and murder charges, brought forward as a result their pro democracy position. They pleaded innocent to all charges. Trial expected to pay 3 days. They have been in custody since July 25. See: Article.
17 November 2021
The court case of the two MPs is postponed to December 6th 2021. This came after state officers testified and did not implicate the two MPs.
19 November 2021
The official launch of the Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO) is carried out via Swaziland News. The chairperson and founder is the exiled MP Mduduzi Simelane. He insists it is a movement as opposed to a political party where anyone can be part of it for the goal of getting to a democratic dispensation. The National Chairperson is Busie Mayisela and Dr Sphetfo Dlamini is Secretary General. The party structure is similar to Tinkhundla, they propose having 4 regional branches, 59 centers but not named Tinkhundla, but wards and structures similar to bucopho. Before the launch, WhatsApp messages between Members of Parliament are shown where they plot to shut down the internet. Members vocal are Lady Howard Mabuza, Sikhanyiso Dlamini, Thuli Dladla, Manqoba Khumalo and Phila Buthelezi. The Secretary to the Cabinet says that the ministers were joking and that the government is not run via WhatsApp.
21 November 2021
Gunmen claiming to be police officers invade arrested MP Bacede Mabuza, they are unsuccessful as members of the Public quickly rush to the area. Sicelo Mngomezulu, the Attorney to the arrested pro democracy MPs, clarified that the members are not part of the newly formed SWALIMO. They expressed their earnest support for it. The members cite that they are focused on the case they are facing and are not allowed to be part of a political organization. See: Article.
23 November 2021
Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini is shown talking to the BBC where he is seen saying that police were shooting with business people to protect their properties. Schools open for finishing classes and there is police presence in some schools. Most schools have low learner turnout. Some pupils are arrested for allegedly being suspected for burning Ngcoseni High. See: Article.
24 November 2021
Two students, Lungelo Lukhele and Zwelakhe Dlamini of Ngcoseni High school are arrested on their first day of school on charges of allegedly burning the school. They are later released after getting their bail paid for by Swaziland News. Lamawandla High school has graffiti on the wall on “Mswati Must Fall” Pro-democracy MPs Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Mabuzas lawyer Thulani Maseko are replaced by Ben J. Simelane due to conflicts of interests of Maseko. Maseko is also chairman of the Multistakeholder forum. Sjava and Mafikizolo, who are set to perform at the upcoming Luju festival,pull out at the last minute and Sjava cites solidarity with the people while Mafikizolo cites safety concerns. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
26 November 2021
Various organizations, including the Communist Party of Swaziland, protest at the Consulate of Eswatini in Johannesburg, South Africa and call for its closure.
28 November 2021
Speaker of the House of Parliament Petros Mavimbelas House petrol bombed. See: Article.
01 December 2021
Students at SANU continue to protest demanding for their refunds and release of pro democracy MPs. Government announces fuel price hike, causing transport workers to demand transport price hike. The Director of Amnesty international in Africa, Depros Muchena, condemns killing of unarmed civilians in Eswatini. See: Article, Video.
02 December 2021
Eswatini Railways train drivers protest demanding better working conditions.
03 December 2021
The Kings interpreter, Sihle Dlamini’s house is burnt down by unknown people. Mfomfo Nkambules political party, Inhlava, joins the political parties assembly (PPA).
04 December 2021
Mhlume High School is set on fire by unknown people. See: Video.
05 December 2021
Conclusion of the Boksburg conference where Letfu Sonkhe Institute of Strategic Thinking had convened organizations including representatives of political parties and civil society. Terms of reference for proposed SADC mediated dialogue were curated to be sent to SADC Troika organ. The conference released the “Boksburg declaration” in which June 29 was declared as a public holiday to honor the victims of the massacre. The conference further called for a transitional authority to be put in place while we work towards a democratic government. Organizations in attendance: Swaziland Concerned Church Leaders (SCCL), Liphimbo Labomake, Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS),Economic Freedom Fighters of Swaziland(EFFSWA), Eswatini Sexual and Gender Minorities (ESGM), Peoples UNited Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), Luvatsu,Eswatini Alternative Policy Forum, Swaziland Rural Womens Assembly (SWRA), Peoples Front, Trade Union Congress of Swaziland ( TUCOSWA), Institute for Democracy and Leadership (IDEAL), Coordinating Assembly of nongovernmental Organizations (CANGO), One Billion Rising, Federation of Disabled in Swaziland (FODSWA), Multi Stakeholders Forum (MSF), Federation of Swaziland Business Community (FESBC), Ngwane National Liberatory Congress ( NNLC), Sive Siyinqaba, Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO), Swaziland Peoples Liberation Movement (SPLM), Swazi Democratic Party (SWADEPA), Swaziland Massacre Victims and Survivors Association (SWAVISA), Swaziland United Democratic Front (SUDF), Swaziland Solidarity Network (SSN), United Eswatini Diaspora (UED), Letfu Sondheim Institute for Strategic Thinking and Development. See: Article 1, Article 2.
06 December 2021
Trial of Pro-democracy MPs Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Mabuza continues. Members supporting them appear outside the court in protest songs. The case is postponed to December 7 2021. See: Video.
07 December 2021
Pro-democracy MPs case which ensues the next day. Schools are shut down and the government cites holidays, when they have opened for two weeks. There is a rise of COVID 19 cases and some protest activity. See: Video.
09 December 2021
Pro-democracy MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dubes case continues. There is a larger force of people protesting in support from various pro democratic forces and political groups. Their case is postponed to 26 January 2022. Sive Siyinqaba Acting Chairperson, Ngomyayona Gamedze, removed as a member of Inyatsi regiment and banned from attending iNcwala.
10 December 2021
Swaziland Massacre Victims and Survivors Association (SWAVISA) is formed as a support organization for victims of the massacres in May 2021. The goal for the organization is to collectively seek help. The official launch was held at Manzini Roman Cathedral. Madzabudzabu Kunene is the chairman of the organization. COVID-19 restrictions relaxed by the government . This is in the midst of rising COVID-19 cases and the beginning of the iNcwala ceremony.
14 December 2021
Political Parties Assembly (PPA) and Multi-Stakeholders Forum (MSF) encourage Swazis to attend the MPs' trial. Report back on travels to Boksburg conference.They clarify that whether the Monarch remains or not will be the collective decision of Swazis and that all the things discussed will be put under collective decision. They resolved that Sibaya is not a suitable arena for dialogue.
20 December 2021
The trial of incarcerated MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube continues, Sibongile Mazibuko, the President of the Ngwane National Liberatory Congress (NNLC) blocked by the police from entering the High Court where she was to support the incarcerated pro democracy MPs in Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube.
21 December 2021
Member of Parliament David “Cruiser” Ngcamphalalas home petrol bombed. See: Article.
30 December 2021
Trial of incarcerated pro democracy MPs: Judge Doris Tshabalala orders the court to enroll a bail appeal in the next session of the court in January 2022.
01 January 2022
Incarcerated pro-democracy Member of Parliament(MP) Mthandeni Dube forcefully transferred from Sidvwashini to Matsapha Maximum Prison. See: Video .
04 January 2022
Torture and intimidation by armed forces continues, two shot at close range in Siteki allegedly for arguing with the police.
05 January 2022
Khumbulani Mvubu, suspected to have burnt minister’s home, tortured by police.
07 January 2022
Swaziland News reported that a group called Swaziland International Solidarity Forces (SISF) has taken responsibility for bombings/ attacks on high profile individuals who played a role in the killing of unarmed civilians. They claim to have killed one police officer but intend to kill more. Their targets include members of the armed forces, royal family as well as business people who are not pro-democracy. See: Article.
15 January 2022
Armed police deployed to evict Nyonyane residents who have been boycotting evictions. Thembeka Dlamini, an investigative journalist in Eswatini, is arrested by the police on alleged charges of drink and driving and later released on bail. She is known to be critical of the regime. See: Article .
30 January 2022
It is reported that Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala and the police are attempting to falsify evidence against MPs Bacede and Mthandeni. Swaziland news claims to have evidence that Nkululeko Dlamini, a security guard with Stealth Security is being coerced into giving false testimony implicating the two MPs in the burning of Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala and the police are desperately negotiating with Nkululeko Dlamini, a security guard with Stealth Security to falsely implicate incarcerated Member of Parliament (MP) Bacede Mabuza in the burning of multi-million import cars during the political unrest. This is contained in highly classified leaked State documents that exposes how King Mswati, alleged corrupt Judges and the police are creating false evidence with the intention of convicting incarcerated pro-democracy MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube. See: Article.
01 February 2022
Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS) president Colani Maseko arrested and charged with sedition and malicious damage to property. Sakhile “Aviwa” Nxumalo of SNUS was kidnapped by over 10 police officers. He is later admitted to hospital after being electrocuted by police. Southern African Nazarene University (SANU) clarifies in a statement that Colani Maseko was never accused of damage to university property as suggested by the Times of Eswatini. Protests ensue in colleges including UNESWA and SANU calling for the release of their SNUS leadership. Police are seen shooting and invading Manzini Nazarene High after some protests for the release of leadership. Notably another video circulates of a group of students chasing out people protesting. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
02 February 2022
Hhelehhele Inyatsi depot burnt.
04 February 2022
Mduduzi “Magawugawu” Simelanes house petrol bombed. He is the exiled MP and leader of SWALIMO. Colani Maseko was released after being granted R15 000 bail. Protesting students wait for his release. King Mswati III addresses parliament in his state of the nation address. MPs Timothy Myeni, Mazwi Zwane, Sandla Fakudze, and Simosakhe Shongwe boycott parliament opening ceremony in solidarity with incarcerated pro-democracy MPs Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Mabuza.
07 February 2022
Swazis in South Africa protest outside Netcare Hospital where Queen Ntfombi Tfwala is admitted. See: Video.
08 February 2022
Swazis in South Africa continue to protest. SWALIMO members trying to visit incarcerated MPs Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Mabuza are beaten and shot by the prison wardens.
09 February 2022
TUCOSWA denied permission to protest and a new order was released that does not allow municipalities to approve requests for protests. See: Article.
16 February 2022
Police assault Swati Newsweek reporter Nomthandazo Maseko. See: Article.
17 February 2022
Trial of pro-democracy MPs continues at the high court. Their case is postponed to a week later and there are about 300 protestors in their support outside the High Court.
18 February 2022
There is a budget speech for the year 2022 as pronounced by Minister of Finance Neal Rijikernberg. Notably, there are cuts in corporate taxes and increases in Pay as You Earn Taxes, which is supposed to help the poor according to the minister because only individuals earning more than 4 000 will be the ones paying this tax. They also mention setting aside R22 million for the upcoming Sibaya dialogue. The health budget is slighlty increased from the 2021 budget year and the educational bdget is the same as the previous fiscal year. Notably, the government does not compare actual figures in changes in the budget from previous years and there are less narrative explanations on it for the average Swazi to understand. There is also no mention of how much money is allocated to the monarchy. See: Speech.
22-24 February 2022
The trial of the incarcerated MPs continues. Protestors from different political parties are outside in attendance. Police fire shots at people protesting outside the high court in support of incarcerated MPs. A health care worker is shot in the midst of this commotion.
25 February 2022
Mbabane government hospital nurses deliver a petition to the National Commissioner after their colleague was shot.
01 March 2022
Two University of Eswatini students abducted and tortured by the Royal Eswatini Police for supporting pro-democracy MPs. Protesters demonstrate at Mbombela Stadium entrance where police soccer team Royal Leopards has a match against South Africa’s Orlando Pirates during the TOTAL Energies CAF Confederation cup. Times of Swaziland makes light of protest in reporting, focusing on the match outcome instead - Royal Leopards lost 6-2 to Orlando Pirates. See: Article.
08 March 2022
Public transport operators protest against fuel hikes. See: Article.
04 April 2022
King Mswati III pulls the country off the SADC TROIKA ministerial meeting. The King allegedly refused to attend the meeting, whose agenda was to discuss ongoing turmoil in Swaziland and Mozambique. See: Article.
07 April 2022
Witnesses refuse to testify in incarcerated MPs' case after ongoing arson attacks. They refused to come to the High Court, following the petrol-bombing of a house belonging to Eswatini Beverages Risk Manager, Sifiso Simelane, who testified in the same matter on March 22, 2022. See: Article.
15 April 2022
South Africa’s EFF holds a peaceful protest at Eswatini border in an effort to raise awareness about continued repression of pro-democracy protests. See: Article.
05 May 2022
MPs' trial continues. JS Clothing workers protest at Siteki demanding higher pay (E15 from R11.19 per hour) and police fire teargas. See: Video.
06 May 2022
MP Marwick Khumalo questions governments inability to share information on the upcoming dialogue, hence Parliament is in the dark on its details. See: Article.
10 May 2022
Thabani Nkomonye’s mother, Simphiwe Mkhabelas car is taken at gunpoint.
11 May 2022
Textile workers at Ho’s enterprise are dismissed – over 300 – on grounds of breaching their contract by engaging in unlawful strikes. This comes after workers had a mass stay away that resulted in security forces forcing them back to work and the workers being forced to sign forms to get back to work promising to not engage in protests. See: Article.
12 May 2022
MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mthandenis trial continues. Their bail appeal does not go through in the Supreme court. See: Article.
13 May 2022
An Internal Task Team is appointed by the National Commissioner, William Dlamini, to deal with the interdisciplinary process related to the murder of Thabani Nkomonye. Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS) in association with other political parties and organizations holds a commemoration of the disappearance and murder of Thabani Nkomonye. Police fired teargas at them inside SNAT Center and when they tried delivering a petition at the Manzini Headquarters. Four people are shot with live bullet rounds. In contrast is the heavy security protecting King Mswati III as he opens Kellogg Tolaram at Matsapha, not far from Manzini. See: Video.
17 May 2022
Swaziland National Students Union (SNUS) President Colani Maseko was heavily assaulted by members of Umbutfo Eswatini Defense Force (UEDF) forces after a protest at Kwaluseni campus that led to its closure. They abducted him at the protest, took him to a remote location and assaulted him and then took him back to Sigodvweni Police Station instead of a hospital. Students were protesting over delayed allowances because they are unable to cover living costs. He was rushed to hospital after this incident. See: Article 1, Article 2.
20 May 2022
MP Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dubes trial continues. They apply to be acquitted of their charges and be discharged.
31 May 2022
Economic Freedom Fighters (EEF) of South Africa hold a protest in solidarity with Swazi pro democracy activists at the Swazi Embassy in Pretoria.
07 June 2022
Amos Mbhedzi dies in South Africa. This comes after he was denyed healthcare while in prison in Eswatini for almost 13 years on charges under the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008. He was transferred in March 2021 to his home country's prisons, South Africa after years of lobbying by political organizations. His health was already deteriorating. Mbhedzi was a member of the South African Communist Party, the ANC, as part of Umkhonto WeSizwe, and worked with the Eswatini Solidarity Network, PUDEMO and CPS among others. He fought for the removal of apartheid and fought for democracy in Eswatini and was a political prisoner. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
14 June 2022
The trial of incarcerated MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube continues. They have applied to be discharged. Proceedings are adjourned by Judge Mumcy Dlamini after she discovers there are missing documents, especially the amended indictment. Supporters going to the High Court proceedings are held back by security personnel. Missing Nkalashane High school student, Ayanda Matimba, reported to be shot by security forces as live bullets were found at the scene. The student was abducted after they were engaged in a protest.
17 June 2022
Government Spokesperson Aplheous Nxumalo warns Swazis against engaging in June 29 activities. Of note is that he admits that June 2021 unrest took place in his statement. See: Statement.
21 June 2022
South African musician, Unathi Nkayi deletes a social media post she had made praising the royal family after visiting them to attend Princess Temaswati’s lobola ceremony. Swazis shared their discontent on her post and she said she did not know about the unrest in Eswatini. See: Article.
22 June 2022
Inyatsi Construction suspends its operations for a week after a series of arson attacks on its machinery plants. The company offers a R500 000 reward for people who can come forward with information on the perpetrators. These attacks have been ongoing throughout the year. Swaziland International Solidarity Forces have claimed to be responsible and targeting businesses linked to King Mswati III. See: Article.
24 June 2022
Members of political parties are searched for arms by security forces and are reported to have disrupted most of their properties ahead of June 29 Commemoration. One of these is Wandile Dludlu who is the Secretary General of PUDEMO.
27 June 2022
Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini promises that there will be use of force in dealing with those who are involved in the killings of two police officers within a few days. Police officers were reportedly shot at on two occasions leading to the death of two of them (Zinhle Mavuso and Sibusiso Matsebula) based in Matsapha and Manzini police stations. There are also reports that one of the army helicopters was bombed. Swaziland International Solidarity Forces are alleged to be the perpetrators. See: Article, Statement.
29 June 2022
June 29, 2021 Massacre Commemoration. After multiple statements from the government threatening the use of force if citizens engage in protest action, a majority of Swazis stay home during the day. Southern Africa Nazarene University (SANU), William Pitcher Teacher College, Eswatini College of Technology (ECOT), Eswatini Medical Christian University have face-to-face learning suspended and the opening of schools is postponed prior to June 29. Security forces are deployed all around the country, wearing normal clothes and not their uniform. The army helicopter hovers around major cities throughout the night and day of June 29. Dozens of shops are closed in major cities and public transport is largely not operating. People driving are being searched by traffic police. The day ends with burning of tyres on the road in parts of Manzini and the Mankaye road, KaKhoza. Stones are reported to be used to pelt moving cars at night around Logoba. See: Article 1, Article 2.
09 July 2022
Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini says ongoing violence against security forces is not conducive for dialogue. He says that violence and killings mean Swazis have to wait for favorable conditions to announce the oncoming dialogue. Notably, violence has been ongoing against unarmed civilians throughout the year from security forces. See: Article.
13 July 2022
MP’s Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Mabuza have their application for acquittal dismissed, so they are to stay incarcerated until their trial continues August 9, 2022. They are charged with inciting public violence, sedition and terrorism. See: Article.
14 July 2022
TUCOSWA denied permission to march against Gender Based Violence in the background of daily news of such incidents. The government through the Municipal Council of Mbabane has repeatedly denied trade unions and other organizations permits to protest in the past few months. See: Article.
15 July 2022
King Mswati III calls the burning of structures “third world” mentality while addressing attendants at the Correctional Services Day celebration. See: Article.
16 July 2022
A cop shoots another to death mistakenly at Hlathikhulu.
19 July 2022
SADC Summit on Eswatini unrest that was supposed to take place on 21 July 2022 is postponed due to unavailability of Eswatini. This is the second time Eswatini has pulled out of this agenda. Multiple petitions were written by stakeholders on the upcoming summit and a protest by the MultiStakeholder Forum (MSF), Political Parties Assembly (PPA) and other organizations in South Africa was planned on this day. The Eswatini Government denied that the Summit was canceled due to a fault on their side, yet every other media outlet said the opposite. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
25 July 2022
Hosea Primary school pupils engage in protest action demanding a response from their petition deliveries in 2021. This is exactly a year after Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Mabuza (who was Member of Parliament under Hosea Inkhundla) were incarcerated. Police Commissioner William ‘Tsintsibala’ Dlamini says in a speech that people killing police must come and fight without hiding or shooting at them from the back. He further says they are not afraid to face them and they will not finish all the police. See: Article.
29 July 2022
Times of Eswatini reports that Tibiyo has made E288 million net profit for the financial year ending in April 2021. See: Statement.
30 July 2022
Nomalungelo “LaZwide” Simelane wins Siphofaneni by elections to replace exiled Mduduzi “Magawugawu” Simelane in Parliament. See: Article.
02 August 2022
Alpheous Nxumalo, the Swazi governments spokesperson is invited to SAFM to talk about the allegations of the monarchs involvement in Hilary Gardees murder. He says South Africa is crime infested and attacks presenter Sakina Kamwendo on air. This led to the SA government responding that his sentiments were unfortunate and hopefully his personal opinions. See: Article.
05 August 2022
Celebrating the Matsapha Police Day, King Mswati III urged police officers to respond with an eye for an eye against people attacking them. He also said he was alarmed by Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Goodrich Gardees allegations that the monarch was involved in his daughters murder. See: Video.
09 August 2022
Schools closed and some government operations as a safety precaution. This is in response to the Swaziland International Solidarity Forces (SISF) commander saying no one should be seen outside on this day. Swaziland National Union of Teachers (SNAT) President Mbonngwa Dlamini urged teachers to not go to work as there was no safety being guaranteed for them. The country is virtually shut down as a result. Pro democracy MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dubes trial continues.There are protests around Msunduza in support of the MPs. See: Article.
10 August 2022
SNAT President Mbongwa Dlamini served with papers of misconduct by the Ministry of Education and the Police Commissioner William Dlamini summoned him after he urged teachers to not report for duty. See: Article.
11 August 2022
Trial of two pro democracy MPs postponed to 8 November 2022. Nyakatfo headteacher held hostage by SISF for opening schools on August 8 and defying the commanders’ order to shutdown the country. See: Article.
17 August 2022
At a SADC Summit held in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), it is resolved that there will be a summit held to resolve the political tensions in Eswatini soon. See: Article.
27 August 2022
There is heavy police presence at the funeral of Thandekile Kunene who was shot by police together with a soldier, Dumisani Tsabedze. They were shot after the police saw them picking a safe with money at Mpaka Shopping Complex. See: Article.
29 August 2022
Umhlanga burnt a kaBhamsakhe ahead of Umhlanga ceremony. Two armed officers (Bhekani Magagula and Phakamani Magagula) from the Correctional Services unit disappear and say they will now work for the pro-democratic camp. See: Article.
30 August 2022
Fewer than usual Imbali (girls who attend Umhlanga ceremony) are picked up by trucks to eLudzidzini. At Hosea constituency, the road is blocked to avoid trucks fetching imbali from going through. Ludzeludze constituency had no maidens show up. About 11 Constituents at Shiselweni had less than 5 maidens showing up. Themba Msibi, Regional Administrator, forces LaZwide to postpone a Thanksgiving event that would have been 3 September in honor of Umhlanga. See: Article.
01 September 2022
Sicelo Mngomezulu, a lawyer working for pro-democracy Members of Parliament Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Mabuza, is declared an illegal immigrant by the government of Eswatini. This happens after he organized a cow slaughtering event for maidens who do not attend Umhlanga. The government alleges that calling for a boycott of umhlanga violates the Public Order Act of 2017. See: Statement, Article.
08 September 2022
Images shared on social media show empty government trucks that were meant to ferry maidens to the annual Umhlanga (Reed) dance. Some organizations within the mass democratic movement had called for a boycott of the annual cultural event, which sees thousands of girls assemble at the royal residence to deliver reeds to and dance before the King and Queen mother. Political parties have rejected the King and royal family’s position of being custodians of Swazi culture, and thus called for a boycott. It is unclear whether or not the boycott was successful as thousands of maidens were seen dancing on the main Umhlanga holiday, with many allegedly coming from KwaZulu Natal in neighboring South Africa. See: Article.
21 September 2022
In the Lubombo region, home of Mlungisi Makhanya, president of People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), is torched after midnight at about 1 AM on September 20 - allegedly by state-sponsored hit-squad. This event follows numerous threats by traditional governor, Timothy Ginindza, “that the regime has trained an arson squad whose sole purpose is to target and burn down the homes of leaders of the Mass Democratic Movement (MDM) and to assassinate them.” The Economic Freedom Fighters(EFF), eSwatini imputes the bombing of People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) president’s home to king Mswati’s regime. Through its spokesperson, Sinawo Thambo, EFF further calls upon African Head of States to isolate the regime to force it to desist from its violent conduct against pro-democracy movements. See: Article 1, Article 2.
29 September 2022
Police opened fire at pro-democracy demonstrations and protests. They also intentionally shoot a pregnant PUDEMO member, Abigail Jele, with tear gas canisters on the stomach. See: Article.
30 September 2022
A peaceful University of Eswatini (UNESWA) students’ protest, demanding jobs and scholarships for all, is met with police violence in Mbabane.
02 October 2022
Lubulini inkhundla set on fire during the night. See: Article.
04 October 2022
University of Eswatini (UNESWA) graduation which was meant to take place on the 8th of October 2022 postponed due to vandalism on the walls written, “Mswati must fall”. King Mswati III attends graduation in his capacity as the Chancellor of the institution. Security officers at the Mbabane Government Hospital protest over their salaries which have not been paid for the past two months. See: Article 1, Article 2.
05 October 2022
Nurses hold protests during lunchtime due to ongoing shortages of medication and medical supplies at the Mbabane Government Hospital.
06 October 2022
Unions under the Public Service International (PSI) delivered a petition to the Ministry of Public Service on labor issues.
07 October 2022
The Swaziland Nurses Association (SNA) delivered a petition to the Ministry of health on the shortage of medication. Some drugs have been recently destroyed by the Ministry due to expiration while shortages loom. There have been reports of patients also being given expired drugs. Mbongwa Dlamini, who is the president of the Swaziland National Union of Teachers (SNAT), receives a letter from the Ministry of Education for being absent from school when attending union activities, making him liable to dismissal. See: Article.
11 October 2022
Limkokwing buildings set on fire. William Pitcher College closes after students protest demanding their allowances which have not been paid. Junior police officers and Correctional Services officers protest and deliver a petition demanding salary increases. See: Video.
12 October 2022
The Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) Secretary, Elias Magosi visits Eswatini. King Mswati III reports that the situation is calm and there is peace in the country. See: Article.
14 October 2022
A warder's house at Mpofu is burnt by unknown people. See: Video.
15 October 2022
LaMgabhi Bhunya Inkhundla petrol bombed.
16 October 2022
Zombodze Emuva Inkhundla petrol bombed. The late PUDEMO president, Mario Masukus home is petrol bombed by unkown people. See: Article.
18 October 2022
Two police officers shot by unknown people at Manzini. PUDEMO National Organizer, Penuel Malingas home petrol bombed, hail of bullet fired at his home. Junior police officers and officers from the Correctional Services protest to Cabinet offices to follow up on a previous petition for a salary increase. They clashed with senior officers and their protest was blocked by the High Court. Security guards who were delivering a petition at Guard Alert Security Services Offices. Police fire teargas at them. See: Video 1, Video 2, Article.
19 October 2022
Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini condemns the killings of police officers and burning of Tinkhundla centers. He says, “What these criminals and their masters do not seem to understand is that Tinkhundla Government is more than just a physical structure, but it is a “political system” that is entrenched in the political fabric of emaSwati. It is not physical but cultural; it cannot be destroyed.” A soldier, William Shongwe, is kidnapped at Sidvwashini Correctional Services, killed and dumped in a forest. Another soldier, Wandile Gina, disappears and comes out to say they are joining the Swaziland International Solidarity Forces (SISF). See: Article , Statement .
24 October 2022
Nhlulweni Royal Kraal, at LaMgabhi Inkhundla, burnt by unknown people.
26 October 2022
Financial Times Editor, Alec Lushabas home petrol bombed. Junior police officers under the Police Staff Association, reject a 4% salary increase offered by the Government (offer made for police, warders and soldiers) after protests demanding a salary increment. The PSA is led by Sargent Dumsile Khumalo. See: Article .
27 October 2022
Montigny workers delivered a petition to their administration requesting for the Swaziland Agricultural Plantation Workers Union (SAPWU) to be recognized as a union. Police retaliate and injure some workers. See: Article .
28 October 2022
Gundane and Sons workers protest at Montigny and Operational Support Services Unit (OSSU) police throw teargas at them. Montigny forests are set on fire. See: Watch .
29 October 2022
Multi Stakeholder Forum holds a community dialogue at Hosea Inkhundla. See: Watch .
31 October 2022
Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) delivered a petition to the Ministry of Education and Training demanding that they stop the victimization of the President, Mbongwa Dlamini. His salary was stopped by the Ministry. Junior police officers protest at the police Headquarters, lock the gates, demanding a salary increase.
03 November 2022
A warder based at Sidvokodvo, Mbongiseni ‘Mathayi’ Dlamini, is found dead after being kidnapped, tortured and killed by unknown gunmen. A police officer based at Matsapha, Mbongeni Dlamini, is kidnapped, drugged and asked to show unknown peopleDeputy National Commissioner, Lydia Dlamini's home. He is later dumped in the middle of nowhere. Junior police officers invade Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini's home, demanding salary increments. See: Article , Watch .
04 November 2022
Kwaluseni Member of Parliament (MP), Mabhanisi Dlamini's home shot at by unknown people. The MP is heard insulting Swaziland News Editor, Zweli Martin Dlamini. Sigodvweni (Matsapha) Police Station shot at during the night. This is the same police station where Thabani Nkomonyes car was found at the beginning of the unrest in May 2021. Members of various political parties deliver a petition to the Taiwan Embassy in Mbabane demanding that they encourage dialogue in the country. See: Video 1 , Video 2.
05 November 2022
Dumako Police post, close to Hlatikhulu, has a shootout leading to a police officer being shot, and a stray bullet injuring a resident. Chief Prince Mahloma (grandson of King Sobhuza II) of Zandondo is shot dead during the night by unknown people.
06 November 2022
A member of Umbutfo Eswatini Defense Force (UEDF)s house torched during the night. A SWALIMO (Swaziland Liberation Movement), Mxolisi Dlamini is abducted by police during the night. Sive SiyiNqaba Youth League President, Ronald Dlamini's home torched. See: Article .
08 November 2022
The trial of incarcerated Members of Parliament, Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube, continues. They are visited by representatives of the International Parliamentary Union (IPU). MP Timothy Myeni takes the stand to testify and part of his submissions is that the unrest was sparked by Themba Masuku, the Acting Prime Minister then, when he banned the delivery of petitions. University of Eswatini (UNESWA) cancels its upcoming graduation ceremony again. There are reports that this is due to threats to the Chancellor, King Mswati IIIs, safety. A police van is shot at at KaKhoza, Matsapha during the day. Deputy Prime Minister Themba Masuku calls a press conference condemning the police killings. He mentions that investigations to find those behind it are ongoing and that dialogue can only take place when there is no violence going on. See: Statement .
09 November 2022
Transport workers in Manzini block entrance to the bus rank after five of its workers were arrested for assaulting a woman. An Imperial Logistics truck is set alight at Ngwenya Border post during the night. A truck carrying timber is shot at by unknown people at Eteteni, Matsapha.
10 November 2022
Manzini transport workers protest over the incarceration of their colleagues who assaulted a woman. They stop operations during the day. Police and soldiers arrived and shot about five workers, who were injured.Some of those injured are: Phathizwe Manana, Siyabonga Mashaba and Nkosinathi Bhembe. The Bus Rank police post is burnt down. A Southern Star Truck is vandalized. Several shops are impacted. Mankayane Government Hospital releases statement that services will be disrupted due to medicine and equipment shortages. See: Tweet , Watch , Article 1 , Article 2 .
12 November 2022
An unarmed civilian, Kayise Qwabe, is shot by soldiers, merely for traveling at night. A bus carrying Young Buffaloes, a soccer team from Umbutfo Eswatini Defense Forces (UEDF), is shot at by Underground forces linked to Swaziland International Solidarity Forces (SISF). A community dialogue to be held by the Multi Stakeholder Forum (MSF), is stopped by soldiers at Buhleni. A police officers game room and alcohol shop is burnt and there is graffiti on the walls demanding democracy. See: Article 1 , Article 2, Article 3.
13 November 2022
Manzini Police post at Satellite Bus Rank set on fire. This leads to suspects being released due to their case files being burnt.
14 November 2022
Piggs Peak Magistrate Court burnt down by unknown people. More than 1500 cane cutters protest at the Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation (RES), Simunye and Mhlume, demanding a salary increase. Eswatini General Certificate of Secondary Education (EGCSE) exams scheduled for November 15 are postponed while the Acting Prime Minister Themba Masuku calls a press conference to say November 15 is a normal working day. This comes after planned protests to support the trial of the incarcerated Members of Parliament, Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Mabuza. A couple is shot by soldiers at Nkoyoyo while traveling during the night. See: Watch , Statement , Article .
15 November 2022
Mr Cheap Supermarket at Eteni, Matsapha is burnt. Residents chase away Fire department personnel who came to put out the fire. Transport workers do a mass stay away and there is no public transport throughout the day. Shops are closed in most of the cities in the country. Pupils from schools are turned back due to security reasons. Teargas are thrown at protesters around the bus rank in Mbabane. Three members of the Swaziland Youth Congress (SWAYOCO), Sanele Sithole, Mpendulo Sithole and someone called Sider, are abducted and tortured by soldiers at the Army Barracks. A soldier at Ludzidzini Royal Residence is shot by unknown people. A protester is shot by the Operational Support Services Unit (OSSU) at Galp Filling Station in Mbabane and dumped by the army around Zulwini. Another protester, Mhlonishwa Sifundza, was shot by OSSU near Central High in Manzini. Mbhekeni Dlamini, a kombi driver, is assaulted by soldiers at KaKhoza and later dumped in the bushes. Acting Prime Minister Themba Masuku holds a conference and thanks security officers for ensuring peace and security throughout the day. He says they managed to keep EmaSwati safe despite a “few skirmishes”. See: Video 1 , Video 2, Video 3, Video 4, Video 5, Statement , Article .
16 November 2022
There is no public transport available for transport workers as they say they are looking for their coworkers who were abducted and injured by security forces. Shops remain closed. The roads around Big Bend are blocked with fires on the road. Trucks burnt down at Rocklands Mill, these are used to transport workers. Some of the forests are set on fire too. Examinations of the Eswatini General Certificate of Secondary Education (EGCSE) are postponed to an unspecified later date. Trial of the incarcerated Members of Parliament, Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Mabuza, continues. Junior officers deliver a petition at the Police Headquarters in Mbabane asking for officers above 70 years old to retire. United Eswatini Diaspora protest at the Eswatini High Commission in South Africa calling for dialogue. See: Article 1 , Article 2.
17 November 2022
Two suspects found with explosives, Musa Kunene and Msindiso Ntshalintshali, appear in court. They report severe assault from security forces. Timber forests around Piggs Peak set on fire. Spokesperson of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defense Force, Tengetile Khumalo, says there are unknown people in the army's uniform shooting at civilians. See: Watch , Article .
18 November 2022
James “Oscar” Motsa, a top police officers home is petrol bombed. King Mswati III meets with the chair of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defense and Security (TROIKA), Namibian President Hage G. Geingob. He encouraged dialogue and said that people go to war when diplomacy fails. See: Article .
19 November 2022
King Mswati III holds an end of year Thanksgiving Prayer at Mandvulo Hall. The King tells EmaSwati to trust in God to defend the country. He asks citizens to pray for the security forces on the ground. SWALIMO member, Philani Sihlongonyane, shot by soldiers. See: Article .
20 November 2022
A soldier shoots a police officer and warder accidentally at a roadblock. See: Article .
22 November 2022
Chief Justice Bheki Maphalalas home was set on fire by reportedly eight gunmen. See: Article .
23 November 2022
Montigny fire station burnt by unknown people.
24 November 2022
Five men die after a shootout and car chase with police officers. Three of them were arrested after their car overturned.
25 November 2022
Businesses were set on fire at Matsapha Industrial Site by unknown people.
26 November 2022
Apostle Justice Dlamini appears in a church sermon and says Swazis must pray for the fall of the person who is refusing with dialogue. See: Video .
01 December 2022
Deputy Prime Minister Themba Masuku refutes reports that there were soldiers shot at the Zibonele Army camp. He also says the government is committed to the national dialogue, it is being delayed by the ongoing violence.
02 December 2022
Nhlangano Mayor Mashumi Shongwes wife, who is a police officer, is shot dead by unknown people. Rocklands SawMill timber set on fire by unknown people.
07 December 2022
Maxwell Nkabule, a lawyer representing two suspects charged under the Supression of Terrorism Act, survives bullets shot at him as the case is ongoing. The attackers are reportedly driving a foreign registered white Toyota corolla.
09 December 2022
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security takes public transport workers to court in a bid to stop their planned mass stay away from Dec 13-14, 2022. The workers do not show up at the Industrial Court hearing.
11 December 2022
Mbuso Mdluli is shot by police around Ezulwini and there are youths demanding answers on why he was shot. A new political party, Swazis First Democratic Front, is formed and headed by Busie Mayisela who was the National Chairperson of SWALIMO. Dr. Siphetfo Dlamini is the Deputy President and is former SWALIMO Secretary General. See: Article 1 , Article 2 .
12 December 2022
The Industrial Court issues an order stopping the mass stay away of transport workers planned for December 13-14, 2022. Transport workers say they will take the time to reflect on the justice system in the country and call for the release of the two incarcerated Members of Parliament. The Deputy Prime Minister Themba Masuku holds another press conference assuring the nation that December 13 and 14 will be normal and there will be transport available. He avails a free national toll line to report disturbances to normal activities. University of Eswatini exams postponed in anticipation of the shutdown. See: Statement 1 , Statement 2 .
13 December 2022
There is no public transport available and learners who are meant to be writing final exams are stranded. Exams Council cancels examinations for the week in a last minute fashion, while other students are said to have gotten the papers already in the Junior Certificate and Grade 7 sittings. Shops around the country are closed too. Government provides a few buses to service the Mbabane-Matsapha-Manzini route and one at Piggs Peak and Nhlangano. They announce the buses are free. The buses are escorted by plain clothes officers and driven by security officers. The buses have few people taking them, while Acting Prime Minister Themba Masuku comes to the buses in Mbabane to greet those alighting from them. One of the buses traveling between Piggs Peak and Mbabane is involved in a car crash with a tourist. Judge Mumcy Dlamini at the High Court case against Members of Parliament Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube says they will deliver the judgment on their bail application on December 15. Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO) Deputy National Organizer, Sibongile Manyikas home shot at with multiple live bullets. See: Article 1 , Article 2 , Article 3 , Article 4 , Statement .
14 December 2022
Deputy Prime Minister Themba Masuku opens a case of criminal contempt of court against Swaziland Transport, Communications, and Allied Workers Union, SWATCAWU Secretary General Sticks Nkambule, and other transport associations for not complying with the court order issued that their mass stay away from providing transportation on December 13 is illegal. There is no public transport in the morning but some start to operate during the day. Schools are empty. Government offices remain closed. Most shops remain closed too. See: Article .
15 December 2022
Judge Mumcy Dlamini dismisses the bail application of incarcerated Members of Parliament Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube. She also dismissed the Crown's application to reopen their case. See: Watch .
16 December 2022
Government spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo. issues a statement on the misinformation that the government put out pertaining to a tourist who was involved in an accident with a government bus transporting citizens. He offers no apologies or condolences to the tourist and does not name them but gives condolences to the bus driver and people on board instead. The tourist is from Switzerland by the name of Sven Agnéus. See: Article 1 , Article 2 .
19 December 2022
Three police officers were shot at and taken to hospital after shooting by unknown people driving a black sedan car. Multi Stakeholder Forum (MSF) elects human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko as Chairperson and Sikelela Dlamini as Secretary General. Sisandza Mavimbela, Coordinator of the Eswatini Sexual and Gender Minorities(ESGM) is elected as the Deputy Chairperson. Emmanuel Ndlangamandla is the Treasurer. Deputy Secretary General is PUDEMO Deputy President Zodwa Mkhonta. See: Article 1 , Article 2 .
22 December 2022
The Political Parties Assembly (PPA) delivers a petition to the South African High Commission in Mbabane to engage with Eswatinis government on the ongoing violence, killings of unarmed civilians. King Mswati IIIs interpreter, Sihle Dlamini's house, set on fire during the night. See: Video 1 , Video 2.
24 December 2022
A new political party, Mamba Liberation Movement (MALIMO) is formed. See: Video .
28 December 2022
Deputy Secretary General of the Swazis First Democratic Front (SDF) kidnapped, shot dead and dumped in a forest not far from his home in Ntondozi by unknown men. Government issues a statement condemning killings of civilians and police officers. This is one of the few times in the ongoing killings that they have acknowledged that political activists are being murdered. See: Article , Statement .
29 December 2022
A man attending the Little Incwala, Joseph Dube, shot by unknown people. See: Article .
31 December 2022
Government Spokesperson, Alpheous Nxumalo, visits the Umbutfo, Joseph Dube, who was shot at by unknown people. He notably has not visited any political activists who have suffered similar fates. See: Article .
08 January 2023
PUDEMO National Organiser, Penuel Malinga's home was fired with live rounds. Two men, suspected to be shooting at Lusekwane man, Fanafana Bhembe, shot at from a helicopter by the army. PUDEMO Women's League President, Xolile Dlamini-Malinga's house was shot at by 28 bullets. See: Article .
09 January 2023
Police shot at a suspect they are pursuing in ongoing shootings. They shoot at a child with live rounds in the process, around Mahlabatsini. The suspect, Mlandvo Khumalo, is said to be part of Swaziland Solidarity Forces according to Swaziland News – he was shot dead. See: Article 1, Article 2, Watch .
11 January 2023
Police put Swaziland Transport, Communication and Allied Workers Union (SWATCAWU) Secretary General, Sticks Nkambule, on their wanted list for alleged contempt of court. Sticks Nkambule responds that these are politically motivated charges and he will continue his work. See: Article 1, Article 2.
13 January 2023
Swaziland National Union of Teachers (SNAT) protest, petitioning the government to hire teachers on a permanent basis. See: Video .
16 January 2023
Ekuthuleni Royal Kraal burnt down by unknown people during the night. An Army camp at Bulembu is invaded by three men and fire shots. One soldier is shot dead. See: Article .
17 January 2023
Students at Eswatini Christian Medical University protest over their unpaid living allowances.
20 January 2023
Swazi's First Democratic Front (SDF) member, Sibusiso Nxumalo, taken by the police. There are no reasons provided for his arrest.
21 January 2023
King Mswati III disperses warriors (emabutfo), in his speech he says the killings and violence occurring will end this year. He goes on to say there will be fighting back to those perpetrating violence are evil, demon infested and that they will end up being blamed for doing this. He says “others” have started this violence and promises that they will pay for this, that once they start working on them kaNgwane, they start shouting “mercenaries” are killing them when they are the ones who started the killings. Multi Stakeholder Forum (MSF) and popular human rights lawyer, Thulani Maseko shot dead at his home. See: Article 1, Article 2, Watch .
22-24 January 2023
Government issues a statement passing condolences on the assassination of human rights lawyer, Thulani Maseko. Activists internationally and in Eswatini blame the government for his murder and call for an independent investigation, not led by the Government. Government spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo appears in a South African news forum, says Thulani was never a person of interest for government – despite contrary evidence of his arrest for contempt of court for 2 years in 2014 after writing articles critical of the monarchy and government with Bheki Makhubu. Messages of condolences come from bodies such as the United Nations, embassies calling for dialogue and investigations. See: Article , Statement 1, Statement 2, Statement 3, Watch .
26 January 2023
Members of political parties deliver a petition at the Manzini Regional Police Headquarters to demand justice for assassinated human rights lawyer and MultiStakeholder Forum (MSF) Chairperson Thulani Maseko. Two protestors are shot using live rounds by the police. One of them is a disabled SWALIMO member, Sibusiso Vilakati. The Government of Eswatini sends a delegation to mourn at Thulani Masekos home. There are rising calls for an impartial investigation into Thulanis Murder, from the African Union and the United Nations. See: Article 1 , Article 2 , Statement , Watch .
28 January 2023
There is a memorial service held for Thulani Maseko where thousands of people gather. Notable delegates include from the European Union and diplomats from various embassies. This was followed by a night vigil and funeral at his home, kaLuhleko, Bhunya. Times of Eswatini reveals that a trained assassin killed Thulani Maseko from ongoing investigations. This was revealed by the aim of the body they shot at, the distance of shooting at Maseko from a curtain. A brief obituary can be read here. See: Article 1 , Article 2 , Watch .
29 January 2023
Barnes Dlamini elected as new president of the Swaziland Democratic Party (SDP).
31 January 2023
The SADC Extraordinary summit condemned the killing of Thulani Maseko and called for swift investigation into his assassination. They called for dialogue and restraint from all parties. South African President and leader of the African National Congress (ANC), Cyril Ramaphosa mourns the assassination of Thulani Maseko and pledges support for the people of Eswatini in their fight for a democratic dispensation. Incarcerated Members of Parliament Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube appear in court. Their judgment is postponed indefinitely by Judge Mumcy Dlamini. See: Statement , Article , Watch .
01 February 2023
Political parties and NGOs deliver a petition to the South African High Commission in Mbabane demanding investigations into the ongoing killings in Eswatini. Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini unveils that elections will continue as planned while plans for dialogue will be halted until the environment is peaceful to do so. He says the violence is what halted the dialogue preparations. See: Watch 1 , Watch 2 .
04 February 2023
Deputy Prime Minister Themba Masuku accuses Amnesty International of paying (bribing) Kenyan citizens to protest against Eswatini. He laments that there needs to be stricter regulatory mechanisms against Non-Governmental Organizations in the country and is surprised because Amnesty does not even have offices in Eswatini. Amnesty International in Kenya refutes these claims. Themba Masuku further commented on the June 2021 unrest saying that the army was called for backup because a mob plotted to burn Matsapha Industrial site. He says the police lacked capacity to respond on their own. He says the country was under siege and it was difficult to tell who was a threat and who was not at night. He reiterated that it was unreasonable to say the government over reacted in any way. See: Article 1 , Article 2, Article 3 .
08 February 2023
The National Commissioner files an application to stop Times of Eswatini from writing statements recorded by Sibusiso Nxumalo, who is accused of being part of the Swaziland Solidarity Forces. See: Article .
10 February 2023
The United Eswatini Diaspora and other political parties delivered a petition to the Department of International Relations and Cooperations (DIRCO) in South Africa demanding the arrest of Arno Pienaar. He is reportedly in charge of killing political activists in Eswatini. Pienaar was given Swazi citizenship after international scrutiny on him rose after the assassination of Thulani Maseko. He also appeared on international media alleging that he was offering security assistance to the government of Eswatini. Pienaar was formerly hired by Montigny Investments belonging to Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg for security purposes. King Mswati IIIs interpreter, Sihle Dlamini, accuses the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) of being a terrorist organization. See: Article 1 , Article 2, Article 3 , Watch .
11 February 2023
The new year prayer service is held at Mandvulo Hall. Jacob Zuma is in attendance and he urges the king to engage in dialogue with emaSwati. He reiterated how armed struggles lead to wounds that never heal and guns in society. Prime Minister Cleapas Dlamini refutes that there are any political killings in Eswatini, he says it's just a few people who are against the Constitution. See: Watch .
12 February 2023
Swazis First Democratic Front Shiselweni Branch Chairperson Thabiso Khumalos home burnt by unknown people. See: Article .
14 February 2023
Musa Clement Kunene and Msindiso Ntshalintshali are in court for being arrested under the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008 after being found with explosives in November 2022. German Robert Dlamini has been charged with possession of firearms and his bail application is opposed. Ncamiso Mabuyakhulu belonging to SWAYOCO and Philani Sihlongonyane belonging to SWALIMO are also charged with murdering state security officers. See: Article 1, Article 2.
15 February 2023
The European Parliament files a joint resolution to the European Union on the human rights abuses in Eswatini. They condemn the assassination of Thulani Maseko and urge for an independent African body like the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights to do the investigation. They urge the EU to review its financial support programmes and call for an end to human rights abuses and crackdown on activists. Gege residents evicted to make way for a new Taiwanese investor. This leads to a series of police assaulting residents to stop them from protesting and to evict them. See: Statement , Article .
18 February 2023
King Mswati III spoke at the opening of Parliament this year and urged people to fight terrorism occurring in the country and its a crime against humanity. He urged Swazis to focus on peace and the gains that have been made since Independence in 1968. Nkilongo MP Timothy Myeni and Siphofaneni MP Nomalungelo “laZwide” Simelane are not in attendance. Harassment of Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS) members condemned at European Union parliament. See: Statement , Article .
19 February 2023
Kings Office Communications Director, Percy Simelane alleges that the unrest in the country is being sponsored by an Asian nation. He said their interests were not political but had to do with business. He said Swazis are not the ones sponsoring this terrorism. Notably, Percy said the same about the June 2021 unrest, that international funders are sponsoring the unrest and called it a “winter revolution”. See: Article .
25 February 2023
There is a stampede at the ongoing Emaganu Festival at Buhleni that leads to about seven injuries and deaths. Times of Eswatini reporters were ordered by security officials to illegally delete pictures of this event. The police also refuted that there were any deaths. Times of Eswatini reports that the armed forces rented private vehicles during the unrest and this cost about R8 million to the government. This confirms reports by civilians that cars belonging to privately registered companies were used to transport security officials when they shot at them. See: Article 1 , Article 2 .
28 February 2023
Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) is turned back at Hosea iNkhundla after they were trying to conduct voter education but residents blocked the road and sang political songs. One person was reported to be shot. Mlungisi Makhanya was re-elected as the President of the Peoples United Democratic Front (PUDEMO). The Deputy President is Wandile Dludlu. See: Article 1 , Article 2 .
03 March 2023
Jailed Members of Parliament Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube have their explanation on why their bail applications were dismissed by Judge Mumcy Dlamini in December 2022. It was mainly that they could not hear any subsequent bail applications from the same parties after they were first dismissed. Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) members shot two civilians on the South African side of Matsamo border who they suspected of being robbers. One of them died. Somntongo residents disrupt the civic voter education exercise being carried out by the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) and demand political dialogue over elections. Police reportedly assaulted residents in response. Members of Parliament call for national dialogue and ask for a community outreach (Vusela exercise) before dialogue. They asked that the money placed aside for the national dialogue be used for this purpose. MP Princess Phumelele asked how this dialogue would take place since there were no Constitutional provisions for it, except through Sibaya. See: Article 1 , Article 2 , Article 3 , Article 4 .
04 March 2023
Police shot Communist Party of Swaziland member, Mvuselelo Mkhabela during the EBC consultation exercise at Hosea Constituency. They later took him and he has been missing since then. See: Article .
06 March 2023
Residents of Nkhaba, Fonteyn constituencies made their submissions during the voter education exercise by the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) that they want dialogue before elections so that differences are resolved before such exercises. Residents alleged that sometimes Chiefs are liable to voter intimidations. Notably, the EBC said calls for dialogue were not part of their jurisdiction. Emmanuel Ndlangamandla, who is ex-CANGO Director, questions why residents should vote for Members of Parliament if they will be arrested anyway. Students at University of Eswatini, Kwaluseni campus, boycott classes calling for the government to provide scholarships for all admitted students. Gabie Ndukuya elected as the new President of the Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS). See: Article , Watch .
07 March 2023
Soldiers shoot Isaiah Amen Mavimbela dead at an informal crossing around Mpuluzi. They shot him several times while he was about to cross and assaulted Kenneth Nkambule who was accompanying him. No reasons were given to why he was shot, Kenneth overheard the soldiers being told by their superiors to shoot him too to conceal the evidence. UNESWA students deliver a petition to the Ministry of Labor demanding for students who qualify for scholarships to be granted. See: Article , Watch .
08 March 2023
Lecturers from UNESWA protest and threaten to be engaged in a Waya-waya strike over their victimization and short term contracts. See: Watch .
09 March 2023
An epileptic man, Malawi Ndlela, is shot by security forces while he and his mother came from hospital. They fled the scene and did not stop to help them. See: Article .
10 March 2023
Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO) President, Mduduzi “Magawugawu” Simelane's son, Zweli Brian Simelane, is arrested by the police on terrorism charges. He is arrested with Mxolisi Simelane and Siphosethu Malinga on the same charges. The Crown alleges that they were aiming to kill the Prime Minister and other MPs. Swaziland Solidarity Forces Commander unveils himself as Thabo Kunene. He is an ex-top police officer of Eswatini. Lawyers for Lawyers release statement of concern over the attempted assassination of human right lawyer Maxwell Nkambule because he represents people charged under the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008. Some members of political parties protest at Mankayane Government Hospital following allegations that bullets were removed by members of Umbutfo Eswatini Defense Forces (UEDF) after they shot Isaiah Mavimbela at an informal border crossing. See: Watch , Article 1 , Article 2 , Article 3 .
13 March 2023
Madzabudzabu Kunene was re-elected as the Swaziland Massacre Victims Association (SWAVISA) Chairperson and Zanele Hlophe is the Vice Chair. See: Article .
14 March 2023
Zweli Simelane, son of exiled former MP Mduduzi Simelane, tells the court that he was forced to record and sign a statement. Zweli is facing six charges, which include allegedly contravening the Suppression of Terrorism Act, robbery and arson and has been accused along with Siphosethu Malinga of EFF and Mxolisi Jabulani Simelane who is a member of SWALIMO. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
17 March 2023
Alpheous Nxumalo,the Government Spokesperson warns against misinterpreting King Mswati’s “silence the guns” statement. He says that the king was not ordering police officers to stop using guns. See: Article .
18 March 2023
An elder under serving under King Maloyi III reportedly grabbed land from a widow, Ntombi Mavimbela, and is building a football pitch without her consent. Mavimbela was told by authorities at the royal kraal that she has no authority to speak because she is a woman, and instructed to bring her brother in law to speak on her behalf. Land grabs and forced evictions by the royal family are common in Swaziland and are historically a major source of the dissatisfaction Swazis have had with the absolute monarch. See: Article .
20 March 2023
A reaction to a government statement by Vusi Sibisi after the King called for “silencing of guns”: Finally, government has acceded that it is licenced to kill extra-judiciary in apparently indirectly justifying its security forces, prematurely extinguishing the young and budding lives of tens of emaSwati youth during and post the June 2021 pro-multiparty protests. See: Article .
28 March 2023
Government spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo says in an interview that the government has no immediate plans for a dialogue apart from a provision in the budget announced by the finance minister during the opening of parliament. The Multistakeholder Forum (MSF) has been calling for a dialogue before the Tinkhundla elections. However, these calls have been ignored, and voter education by the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) ahead of the Tinkhundla elections has continued. See: Article 1, Article 2.
03 April 2023
SWALIMO member Wonder Gama was attacked and burnt by police. See: Article .
04 April 2023
It is alleged that King Mswati III shot and killed a warder who was suspected to be planning Mswati’s assassination. He is said to have pulled the trigger himself. See: Article .
06 April 2023
In a report addressed to the United Nations, Foreign Affairs minister Thuli Dladla continues to drive the state’s narrative that infighting within the pro-democracy movement led to the assassination of Thulani Maseko. She further states that incarcerated MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube were denied bail because they are a flight risk. See: Article .
08 April 2023
The Political Party Assembly (PPA) released its program for the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the 12 April 1973 proclamation. The plans for the commemoration include blockades at major border posts. See: Article .
15 April 2023
PUDEMO member Brian Sihlongonyane abducted, tortured and dumped in a forest allegedly by armed members of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF). This was after he had led a small group of activists to deliver a petition at the United Nations. See: Article .
18 April 2023
PUDEMO deputy president led a petition delivery to finance minister Neal Rijikernberg, who is alleged to be responsible for the hiring of mercenaries. The petition delivery comes after reports of a plot to assassinate PUDEMO president Mlungisi Makhanya, in which Neal is implicated along with Clement Sihlongonyane, and Brian Nyembe, who was allegedly persuaded to assist in the assassination in exchange for his freedom. Nyembe had been arrested in connection with housing members of the solidarity forces (SISF). See: Article .
01 May 2023
The Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA) hosts workers day celebrations at Mayaluka Stadium, Big Bend.
02 May 2023
Zimbabwe's civil society condemns King Mswati IIIs visit to the country as he is a human rights violator. The coalition consists of over 80 civil society organizations. See: Video .
03 May 2023
Government spokesperson Alpheos Nxumalo, says the US Senator, Chris Coons, who tabled the resolution condemning human rights in Eswatini, should not be a political conduit of the mass democratic movement that wants to overthrow the government. See: Article .
05 May 2023
Simhle Fakudze, a police recruit who belonged to Swazis First Democratic Front (SFDF) is secretly buried by police to avoid embarrassment of her managing to pass the vetting process as a political party member. This occurs despite the family saying there would be an actual burial. See: Article 1, Article 2.
06 May 2023
Swazis in the United Kingdom, including exiled Member of Parliament, Mduduzi “Magawugawu” Simelane and allies protest as King Mswati III attends King Charles’ coronation. See: Video .
09 May 2023
The Industrial Court of Eswatini ruled the decision by the government to stop paying Swaziland National Union of Teachers (SNAT) President Mbongwa Dlamini's salary as unlawful. They are ordered to give him all his back pay from October 2022. See: Article .
15 May 2023
Mthokozisi Dlamini shot by the police at Madlangempisi after he was mistaken for his brother that the police were looking for. He was shot twice in the chest, close to his heart. Police deny that he was a mistaken suspect. See: Article .
17 May 2023
UNESWA Registrar Selebona Simelane permanently deploys police to all campuses. This comes after the campus opened from a two month shutdown over protests and financial challenges. See: Article .
18 May 2023
PUDEMO and Swaziland Youth Congress (SWAYOCO) launched an anti Tinkhundla campaign to boycott elections. See: Poster .
19 May 2023
Khaya Gina, a member of the Swaziland Democratic Party (SWADEPA), was fired from acting as a registration clerk for the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC). The reason cited is that they belong to a political party. See: Article .
26 May 2023
Thabani Nkomonye commemoration day takes place at the SNAT center and is organized by the Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS). Economic Freedom Fighters of Swaziland (EEFSWA) organized a protest to Eswatinis Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa, calling for democratic reforms in Eswatini. They were joined by United Eswatini Diaspora (UED), Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO) and EFF South Africa members. See: Video , Article .
30 May 2023
King's interpreter Sihle Dlamini says he was happy to see security forces killing those who were burning the country during the June 2021 unrest. See: Article .
01 June 2023
Commander of the Swaziland Solidarity Forces, Thabo Kunene, handed over to Eswatini police through an informal crossing from South Africa. This comes after Swaziland News reported that the Commander was caught by businessman and inyanga, Andile Nkomonye who is known as Dr Mkhulu. The businessman once called Swaziland News editor, Zweli Martin Dlamini trying to meet him and offering financial support. See: Article , Video .
02 June 2023
Incarcerated Members of Parliament (MPs) Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube found guilty on charges of murder, terrorism (under Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008) and inciting violence during the June 2021 unrest. The US Embassy in Eswatini releases a statement condemning the guilty verdict on the MPs. The government spokesperson Aplheous Nxumalo responds saying that the US should not interfere in the country's judicial verdicts. See: Judgement , Article 1, Article 2 , Article 3 .
05 June 2023
The government of Eswatini distanced itself from the programme of organizations that the Southern African Development Community’s Electoral Advisory Council (SAEC). The mission is in the country to inspect the political environment with regards to hosting peaceful elections in September. The organization met with different political parties, including PUDEMO, EFFSWA and the MultiStakeholder Forum (MSF) amongst its list of organizations to meet. The government emphasized that the mission was not invited by the government. The Communist Party of Swaziland mourns the death of its founding Chairperson, Dumisani “DU” Fakudze. See: Statement , Audio , Article 1, Article 2.
08 June 2023
The United State Senate Committee on Foreign Relations approves a resolution condemning Eswatinis human rights record. THe resolution was presented to the Senate by Senators: Chris Coons, Jim Risch, Cory Booker and Tim Scott. See: Resolution , Article .
09 June 2023
Government of Eswatini issues a statement alluding to having information on threats to arrested Swaziland Solidarity Forces Commander, Thabo Kunenes life so that he does not divulge any information to the police. Swaziland News Editor Zweli Martin Dlamini reports that there should be reports of security being strengthened to protect the arrested Solidarity Forces Commander, Thabo Kunene. He adds on the need for transparency throughout the investigation. The Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA) attends the International Labor Organizations (ILO) conference where they report human rights violations in Eswatini. This was communicated to Swaziland News by its Secretary General, Mduduzi Gina. See: Statement , Article 1, Article 2.
12 June 2023
Professor Dlamini is hired by The Peoples United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) to represent jailed Swaziland Solidarity Forces Commander, Thabo Kunene and King Mswati III purchases about 20 Mercedes Benz cars for his wives. These are estimated to be close to R50 million. See: Article 1 , Article 2.
14 June 2023
Voter registration for local government elections extended to June 18, 2023 by the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC). The reason cited was that there was massive voter turnout on the last day. About 524 000 people had registered according to EBC. Notably, on the 12th of June, 2023, the EBC was not considering extending the registration deadline. By then, there were about 414 848 people registered and people eligible to vote in Eswatini are about 625 629 (from 2017 statistics). The People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) delivers a petition to the South African Embassy over the alleged kidnapping of Swaziland Solidarity Forces Commander, Thabo Kunene. See: Article 1 , Article 2, Video .
16 June 2023
The Supreme Court of Eswatini declares that a ruling by the High Court of Eswatini to dismiss the application by Eswatini Sexual and Gender Minorities (ESGM) to be registered as a non-profit organization, was unconstitutional. The Supreme Court gave the Minister responsible for registration of companies to reconsider ESGMs application and give a decision within 60 days. See: Article , Background on ESGM Registration case, Judgement .
20 June 2023
Members of the Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO) protest at Mbombela stadium, where the Swazi national soccer team, Sihlangu, is playing against Togo. See: Article .
21 June 2023
The Center for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, holds the first Thulani Maseko Inaugural Lecture in honor of its slain alumnus, at Esibayeni Lodge. In the keynote address by Judge Dhaya Pillay, she noted that to date, Thulanis wife, Tanele Maseko, has not been given a progress report of the investigation into his assassination. See: Article 1, Article 2.
22 June 2023
Alleged commander of the Swaziland Solidarity Forces, Thabo Kunene, who was arrested on 43 charges of contravening the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008, has his affidavit explained to the public. In his statement, he argues that he was kidnapped and tortured by police led by Clement Sihlongonyane and Thabo Hlophe without a warrant of arrest or extradition order from South Africa. He alleges that he was kidnapped at the home of traditional healer, Dr. Mkhulu in Rustenburg, South Africa and brought back to Eswatini. See: Article .
23 June 2023
Shortage of medical supplies leads to Mbabane Government Hospital asking patients to bring their own bandages if coming in for injury care. Patients are forced to buy other medicines such as paracetamol, out of pocket, which many cannot afford. The Swaziland Massacre Victims and Survivors Association (SWAVISA) holds a candlelight service in memory of the June 29, 2021 unrest victims at Caritas, Manzini. See: Article , Video .
27 June 2023
The Crown opposes arrested alleged solidarity forces commander Thabo Kunene and his co-accused, Sibusiso Nkomonyes application to get medical attention. The commander has alleged that he is being tortured.
28 June 2023
Mbabane Government Hospital medical workers deliver a petition to the Ministry of Health over shortage of drugs, medical supplies and health personnel. See: Videos .
29 June 2023
Patients join health workers in protest against shortage of medical supplies at Mbabane Government Hospital. The Swaziland Transport Communication and Allied Workers Union (SWATCAWU) holds a commemoration of the June 29,2021 unrest at the Manzini Bus Rank. See: Article .
30 June 2023
Some Members of Parliament, including Robert Magongo, Marwick Khumalo amongst others, requested for the voter registration process to be started afresh after discovering that some names were not in the voters roll even though they were registered. Other complaints were that voters were being asked to verify that they are registered through phones, when not every Swazi who can vote has a cellphone, thus leading to confusions in the voting process and making people lose confidence in the process. United Eswatini Diaspora (UED) protests demanding for the release of incarcerated alleged Swaziland Solidarity Forces Commander, Thabo Kunene and co-accused Sibusiso Nkomonye. See: Article .
01 July 2023
Government Spokesperson, Aplheous Nxumalo says that political parties are not an answer to challenges faced by the African Continent. He posits that there is no country where poverty was eradicated simply by the existence of multiparty democracy, instead, political parties are full of thugs who steal from the masses. This is in response to sentiments of leaders of the Mass Democratic Movement (MDM) during the June 29, 2021 unrest commemoration events. See: Article .
06 July 2023
Mphandlana Shongwe, member of the Peoples United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), who is facing a charge under the Suppression of Terrorism Act which he allegedly committed in July, 2009, has his case fail to take off in court. See: Article .
11 July 2023
Citizens board buses to Sibaya, notably, trucks are not used this time to transport them. King Mswati III addresses thousands of emaSwati at the Royal Kraal, Ludzidzini. He dissolves parliament in preparation for the elections. He mentions that the COVID- 19 pandemic made it hard to hold a dialogue and with things getting better, hopefully Swazis will be able to get together after elections. From the Times of Eswatini, “ Sibaya means the nation meeting, as the Swazi National Council at the Ndlovukazi’s official residence for the purpose of deliberating or deciding on important national matters. Section 232, subsection 3 states that Sibaya functions as the annual general meeting of the nation. but may be convened at any time to present the views of the nation on pressing and controversial national issues.” See: Article 1, Article 2, Video .
12 July 2023
A lone petitioner, Sthembiso Dlamini, delivers a petition over medical drug shortage at Motshane Clinic. See: Video .
13 July 2023
Some voters alleged to be needing validation on the voters roll at KaMkhweli as some residents claim that the population is less than 2500 people, yet the roll has over 4800 people registered. See: Article .
14 July 2023
Member of the Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS), Sambulo Shongwe, re-arrested after being granted bail. He was re-arrested on charges of assaulting a police officer. His initial charges were for burning the National Flag. Health workers and Swaziland United Democratic Front (SUDF) protest at Mankayane Government Hospital over shortage of medical drugs and supplies. Swaziland Massacre Victims and Survivors Association (SWAVISA) confirms, through its chairperson Madzabudzabu Kunene, receiving about R100 000 from the European Union to capacitate unrest survivors to tell their stories and prepare for any litigation testifying. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
15 July 2023
A national prayer for peaceful elections is held at Lobamba Memorial Church led by the Swaziland National Council of Churches. This comes from trying to prevent bloodshed during election periods, where people go missing. See: Article .
17 July 2023
Four members of the Communist Party of Swaziland (Mhlonishwa Mtsetfwa, Sabelo Zwane, Bathusile Bhembe and Manqoba Motsa) arrested by the police for plotting to disrupt Tinkhundla elections. They however, manage to flee. See: Article .
18 July 2023
African National Congress (ANC) Secretary General Fikile Mbabula reiterates calls for seeing a democratic dispensation in Eswatini. Mbalula said that they cannot remove governments as they wished and respect sovereignty, trusting that nations can resolve conflicts internally, otherwise they could have done that in Eswatini. Government Spokesperson, Alpheous Nxumalo, said democratization is the responsibility of Swazis not foreigners. See: Article .
19 July 2023
Prince Simelane lifted bans on protest marches in his capacity as Minister of Housing and Urban Development, after almost two years of banning them (banned municipalities from issuing protest permits October 2021). The reason for banning protests was to allow the economy to recover. Simelane asked that relevant parties should send between 5 to 10 representatives to deliver their petition to the designated party ready to receive them to avoid chaos arising from many people participating in these deliveries. Members of political parties, including PUDEMO and Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS) attend the BRICS (an economical grouping consisting of Brazil, Russia, India,China and South Africa) Political Parties Plus Dialogue Summit spearheaded by the African National Congress of South Africa. People's United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) Treasurer General, Velaphi Mamba participated in a panel to disclose issues in Eswatini. The BRICS political parties dialogue was a platform, ahead of the BRICS 15th Conference later in August, to reaffirm the struggles of the nations of the global south by calling for an equitable multilateral economic and governance order. It was an opportunity for country-to-country solidarity where the plight of countries still struggling with imperial and repressive regimes were ventilated. The case of Swaziland was fully flighted by the Treasurer General of PUDEMO, Velaphi Mamba, thus gaining the support of the participants to the dialogue. The space played a very important role in spotlighting PUDEMO as a premier liberation movement representing the aspirations of the people of Swaziland.The TG participated in a high-level live media panel conversation of liberation Movements from Zimbabwe, Palestine, Western Sahara, the Communist Party of South Africa, and Swaziland, which was moderated by the ANC. See: Article 1, Article 2, Video .
20 July 2023
Wife of assassinated human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko, Tanele Maseko, says she last heard from officers regarding the case days after her husband's death. Since his assassination on January 21, 2023, no reports have been made on the progress of finding the perpetrators. Aspiring Member of Parliament, Timothy Myeni removed from voters' roll at Lubulini. He is the current MP of the iNkhundla. The rejection states that he is not a resident of the area, while his wife and children were accepted when they registered under the same area. Outgoing Member of Parliament Manzi Zwane under Nhlambeni constituency was also removed from the voters roll with reasons unknown, leading to residents boycotting. The two MPs are pro democracy leaning. See: Article 1, Article 2.
23 July 2023
Timothy Myeni fails to stop the elections nominations process at Mabantaneni uMphaktsi under Lubulini iNkhundla, the court says he should appeal to the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) on the decision to disqualify him on the voters roll. See: Article .
24 July 2023
The traditional healer who is known to have captured solidarity forces commander, Thabo Kunenne, Andile Nkomonye, known as Dr Mkhulu, appears in Rustenburg Magistrates court over alleged rape charges. Members of political parties including Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO), People's United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), Economic Freedom Fighter of SWaziland (EFFSWA), Lubumbano LweNkhululeko yemaSwati and United Eswatini Diaspora (UED) were in attendance. Prominently, PUDEMO President Mlungisi Makhanya was present. See: Article .
25 July 2023
Induna yeNkhundla nominee Simo Mamba made to apologize after shouting, “Amandla” (power) when he accepted his nomination. This was said to be disrespectful to be said in a Royal Kraal. See: Article .
28 July 2023
Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) President, Mbongwa Dlamini, received his salary after a three month ruling that the Government holding his salary was unlawful. However, his back pay from October 2022 has not been received. Health workers and residents at the Piggs Peak government hospital protest over medical drugs and supply shortage. Ndzingeni Branch Chairperson of the People's United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), Maqhawe Nkhambule, abducted by the police. Incarcerated pro-democracy Members of Parliament's lawyer, Sicelo Mngomezulu, elected as the new Chairperson of the MultiStakeholder Forum. This is a coalition of political parties and civil society organizations fighting for a democratic dispensation in Eswatini and has led negotiations with regional bodies since the June 2021 unrest. He succeeds the assassinated Chairperson and lawyer, Thulani Maseko. See: Article 1, Article 2, Images .
29 July 2023
The Economic Freedom Fighters of South Africa hosts its 10th anniversary celebration. Swati political parties are in attendance, including PUDEMO, EFFSWA, MSF and brother to incarcerated Member of Parliament, Mduduzi Mabuza, Bheki Mabuza. See: Video .
01 August 2023
Three political parties, Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO), Inhlava and Swaziland Democratic Party (SWADEPA), walked out of the MultiStakeholder Forum (MSF) General Assembly. The MSF is a coalition of political parties and civil society groups working towards achieving a democratic dispensation in Eswatini. This walk out comes after the MSF resolved against participating in elections and allegedly, the three political parties were not in agreement with that stance, so they resolved to terminate their membership. They alleged that members of the Peoples United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) issued threats on their resolve to participate in the upcoming elections. Notably, lawyer Sicelo Mngonmezulu was elected as the new Chairperson of MSF. See: Article .
02 August 2023
A 25 year old man is shot dead by the police at Ngwane Park while the police try to apprehend armed robbery suspects. See: Article .
03 August 2023
Over 200 students delivered a petition to the Ministry of Labour in Mbabane over delayed allowances. Political parties under the banner of the Swaziland United Democratic Front (SUDF) delivered a petition at the Human Rights Commission over medical shortages. The current Chairperson of SUDF is Lucky Dlamini. See: Article , Video 1, Video 2.
05 August 2023
The Peoples United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) Youth League National Organizing Secretary, Nhlanhla Magongo addresses the African National Congress's Youth League during its ongoing conference. See: Video .
08 August 2023
Eswatini College of Technology closed indefinitely after students were protesting. Students had R1 000 deducted from their allowances for food and housing when they were not receiving these.This comes after the college had been recently closed for about six months in the same year (2023). See: Article .
09 August 2023
President of the Peoples United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), Mlungisi Makhanya, travels to Zimbabwe to lend support for opposition candidate Nelson Chamisa who is President of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). Timothy Myeni, who was disqualified from elections, passes the vetting process and is allowed to Compete under Nkhanini at Nkilongo Inkhundla. See: Article , Video .
11 August 2023
Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS) delivered a petition at the University of Eswatinis (UNESWA) Kwaluseni campus over the permanent deployment of police officers onto campuses. See: Videos .
15 August 2023
Some chiefs voice requests at the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) to bar self exiled emaSwati from participating in elections on the grounds that they would manipulate diaspora results in their favor. They said self exiled Swatis are those who are criminals and against the Tinkhundla regime. Exiled Member of Parliament, Mduduzi “Magawugawu” Simelane continues to speak of the need to liberate Eswatini and Swaziland Liberation Movements (SWALIMO) continued will to engage in the upcoming elections. He emphasizes that every site is a site of struggle, even though they do acknowledge that the Swati Parliament is a place controlled by the Monarch. He also emphasizes that they have a will that this be the last elections hosted in Eswatini because they know that they are not free and fair. See article about life in exile by Pius VIlakati who is a Central Committee member of the Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS). See: Article 1, Article 2, Video .
16 August 2023
Member of the People's United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), Lucky Malaza, defies party's policy to boycott Tinkhundla elections and contests for Member of Parliament position under Gilgal Inkhundla. See: Article .
17 August 2023
An employee at Rocklands Sawmills, Mbongiseni Zikalala, gets injured on duty and loses two fingers, the company fires him with R10 000 compensation. The company does not offer a medical healthcare plan for him. See: Article .
18 August 2023
King Mswati III addresses the Southern African Development Community's Organ on Politics, Defense and Security (SADC Troika). He says that Eswatini should not be expected to hold a dialogue with terrorists and the organ should instead condemn terrorism in the country. He said he was shocked that Eswatini is being told to negotiate with terrorists and perpetrators of violence. He further stated that they will plan to hold a dialogue, as stipulated in the Constitution, in the form of Sibaya, after the national elections. The King noted the Pre-Election Assessment Mission sent to Eswatini made a note that was aligning with a negative narrative, that the country was not peaceful to hold elections and this was not true. Mangololo, a political party aligned with the Monarchy, released a statement in agreement through its Secretary General, Mphathiswa Masuku, with the King's speech and further said they are disappointed to see SADC associating with the same terrorists killing security forces in the country. Notably, Secretary General of the Peoples United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), Maxwell Dlamini, addressed the SADC Summit too. A drunk Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force recruit stabs a liSwati at a bar on the neck and they die. See: Article 1,Article 2, Article 3Video .
21 August 2023
Incarcerated Members of Parliament (MP) Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Mabuza express their frustration at not getting a conviction since being found guilty of charges of terrorism and violating the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008, on June 1, 2023. Eswatini College of Technology (ECOT) students protest at the Ministry of Labour in Mbabane demanding a response on the issue of not receiving their allowances. See: Article , Video .
25 August 2023
President of the United Peoples Democratic Front (PUDEMO), Mlungisi Makhanya, President of the Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO), Mduduzi “Magawugawu” Simelane, and the Government spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo are in a three way virtual interview with SABC news in South Africa to discuss the upcoming elections in Eswatini. Alpheous emphasizes that Swazis decided themselves that Tinkhundla is the system they want to participate in and so they are currently exercising their rights in the upcoming elections of voting and that political parties remain banned. Magawugawu emphasizes that SWALIMO does not want this election, but they are focused on being present in the elections and fighting as incarcerated MPs did, so they will need voices in parliament. He agrees that there is no government meant to serve Swazis that is handpicked by the King. Alpheous is adamant that if the government was oppressive, SWALIMO members would not be allowed to participate in elections and have freedom to fight the system from the inside, he also says the King does not have his relatives handpicked for government. He also blames political parties for the 2021 unrest, says they started the “kungahlwa kwenile” campaign and he fights for dialogue as they space they currently hold. Makhanya affirmed PUDEMOs stance in not participating in elections because they were, in theri view, not meant for the masses, but favoring the monarch. See: Article 1,Article 2, Video .
29 August 2023
President of the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT), Mbongwa Dlamini, is found guilty by the Teaching Service Commision (TSC) on 109 charges of absenteeism between December 2021 and October 2022. Incarcerated Members of Parliament, Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube vote in the primary elections through special voting. See: Article 1,Article 2, Article 3.
30 August 2023
King Mswati III urges mourning widows to remove their mourning gowns during the upcoming 55/55 celebrations. The King will celebrate his 55th birthday and the 55th independence of the country on 6th September 2023. This is interesting because on a usual day, widows are not allowed anywhere near the king or the royal residence if they are in mourning. However, widows are allowed to remove mourning gowns ahead of independence day celebrations, according to the Times of Eswatini. Widows were urged to keep mourning in their hearts during this period. Political parties and other civil society organizations deliver petitions to the Ministry of Health over drug and human resource shortages. Police fire teargas at protestors and allege that they did not get permission to use the routes they are using to protest. See: Article 1,Video, Video.
01 September 2023
The Mail and Guardian reviews how it has been eight months since prominent human rights lawyer and head of the MultiStakeholder Forum (MSF), Thulani Maseko was killed and there has been no leads into his investigation. It also reviews how the state of political and economy of eSwatini has been showing negative signs, especially since the June 2021 unrest. See: Article .
06 September 2023
The Unthinkable II releases on Independence day. The sequel documents the ongoing assassination attempts on political and human rights activists in Eswatini. It details the stories of survivors and those who died, lately, prominent human rights lawyer, Thulani Maseko. It dates back to stories of those forgotten, who died in the hands of the police before the 2021 unrest, such as Sipho Jele, who was arrested for wearing a PUDEMO t-shirt in May 2010 and died in custody under mysterious circumstances. Civil society organizations such as CIVICUS and the Foundation for Socio Economic Justice (FSEJ) call for the release of incarcerated Members of Parliament Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube as part of the pardons for independence day. The MPs were found guilty on their terrorism charges in June 2023 and await their sentencing. Taiwan's president, Tsai Ing-Wen is in Eswatini to celebrate the 55/55 Independence celebrations as their last ally in Africa. See: Article 1,Article 2, Documentary .
14 September 2023
The Swazi Bride reports the plight faced by political activists living in exile. It details how many Swazis in South Africa have not been granted asylum status despite being there for years. Two Swazis, Mandla Hlatshwayo and Bongani Masuku have been granted asylum so far. This is similar in other countries overseas, where very few Swazis have official asylum papers. See: Article .
16 September 2023
Members of the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) hold an extraordinary urgent general council meeting to deliberate on the firing of their president, Mbongwa Dlamini. The council promises to make petition deliveries, engage in go-slows and desensitization campaigns until he is reinstated. See: Article .
20 September 2023
Incarcerated Member of Parliament Bacede Mabuza is allegedly found in possession of a cellphone in prison. According to the Times of Eswatini, this is the second time he has been found to have one, the first time was around December 2021, where he was placed in solitary confinement as punishment. See: Article .
22 September 2023
Former Member of Parliament, Sibusiso Mabhanisi Dlamini goes to court alleging a flawed election process after losing the primary elections in the Kwaluseni Constituency. He notably testified against the two incarcerated Members of Parliament who were found guilty on terrorism charges and inciting the June 2021 unrest. He lost to Sifiso Shongwe, son to businessman who is in jail , Sipho Shongwe, on allegedly murdering his wife earlier in 2023. See: Article .
27 September 2023
Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) soldier, Morris Nhlanhla Dlamini allegedly shot three of his relatives and damaged their property during a family dispute, including two cars. He is currently in custody. The government of Eswatini is reported to be seeking a court order to bar the Swaziland National Teachers Association (SNAT) president, Mbongwa Dlamini, Swaziland Youth Congress (SWAYOCO) president, Sakhile Awuviva Nxumalo and the SNAT Secretary General, Lot Vilakati from entering the courtroom where Mbongwa’s case is being heard. He was dismissed from his teaching job on alleged charges of absenteeism. The government alleges that they are interfering with the judicial process and that they made threats to some judges on the matter. Government puts a condition that he can only enter the courtroom after he retracts his statements and apologizes. The High Court dismissed all applications challenging the primary elections, including that of former Members of Parliament who lost in the primary elections, Lutfo Dlamini and Sibusiso Mabhanisi Dlamini. See: Article 1,Article 2.
28 September 2023
The Eswatini government refuses to allow the LGBTQ+ group, Eswatini Sexual and Gender Minorities, to be registered as an organization. This comes after the SUpreme court in June ruled in favor of the group being registered. This was communicated through the Ministry of Trade, Commerce and Industry. See: Article .
29 September 2023
Secondary elections are ongoing in various parts of the country. Election observers from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are in the country. There is wide coverage of the elections, and journalists from the New York Times are also seen at a polling station. See: Article .
02 October 2023
Incarcerated Member of Parliament, Bacede Mabuza, is reported to have been heavily assaulted by warders in prison and needing medical attention. His wife, Bongumenzi Mabuza says his eyes were damaged in the process and that he was being denied food access. THis came after she delivered food for him and was told her husband was not willing to see her and when she subsequently saw him, he was visibly injured and said he never denied seeing her. The officers who assaulted him are also reported to have been drunk. She filed for a High Court application for him to get medical attention. There are also reports that signal jammers were installed at his prison cell by Baston Security, the company hired by the government to allegedly fight terrorism. See: Article 1, Article 2.
03 October 2023
Some citizens who ran for Member of Parliament (MP) positions allege that the elections were filled with bribery and corruption. They allege that some election codes were not abided by and the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) ignored their outcries. They say some who were in government in previous years had monetary and food parcels to distribute, which gave them unfair advantages. The African Union (AU) observer mission finds this year's elections peaceful, free and fair. They also noted that women remain underrepresented in government. According to their analysis, 91.2% of eligible voters registered for the elections. They recommended the government look into allowing political parties in the elections process, and notably, embrace young people being included in the electoral process. See: Article ,Document .
05 October 2023
King appoints 10 Members of Parliament, a few include returning members, including, Thulisile Dlala, Lindiwe Dlamini, Manqoba Khumalo and Prince Simelane. King Mswati III’s son, Prince Lindani is also appointed. A new Member of Parliament (MP), Prince Mgucisi Dlamini, allegedly escaped Botswana without a passport to Eswatini to stand for elections. He was allegedly arrested for smuggling cannabis into the country and his passport was forfeited by the police in Botswana. See: Article 1,Article 2.
06 October 2023
Pigg’s Peak Member of Parliament, Jabulani “Buy Cash” Mabuza elected as the new Speaker of the House of Assembly. New Members of Parliament were also sworn in. See: Image .
07 October 2023
The Eswatini National Commissioner of Police (NATCOM), William Tsintsibala Dlamini, collapses and dies at the Oliver Tambo (OR) Airport in South Africa while awaiting his flight to Eswatini. The Commissioner was a key figure in the June 2021 unrest and issued orders related to the state of Emergency, deploying police into the streets and being outspoken that civilians should be shown no mercy if they are seen in the streets protesting. See: Article .
23 October 2023
The King holds Sibaya and it is labeled as the long awaited SADC dialogue, which political parties refute. The Sibaya will have people make submissions about the country's state of affairs, advise the King on the appointment of the new cabinet. Notably, about E30 million was allocated for this national dialogue. See: Article , Video .
24 October 2023
Sibusiso Dlamini makes a submission that political parties should be allowed to participate in the country’s elections, the mic is immediately grabbed from him while he is speaking. The government released a statement saying the speaker was overtime, that is why they grabbed their microphone and it had nothing to do with his comments. See: Statement , Article .
03 November 2023
On the last day of the Sibaya National Dialogue, Russell Mmiso Dlamini is appointed by the King as the new Prime Minister of Eswatini. He is a former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) – in office 2015 to 2023. He has also worked for World Vision in Eswatini and Rwanda. He holds a Master of Philosophy degree in Sustainable Development, Planning and Management. He is the youngest PM to be appointed. He replaced Cleopas Dlamini who only held his position for two years before being replaced. Notably, the new PM is also a pastor. See: Document , Video , Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
06 November 2023
King Mswati III appoints new members of the Senate, one of them is Stukie Motsa, who is a former Deputy Secretary General of the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO). See: Article .
14 November 2023
Stufuza weCountry, Mzwandile Dlamini, appears in court on charges of theft, where he is alleged to have stolen E2 000 from Phinda Mhlongo in May 2021. He allegedly stole money from multiple people under false pretense where he promised to help them if their relatives died in neighboring countries. Thulisile Dladla appointed as the Deputy Prime Minister, making her the first female DPM. See: Article , Statement .
15 November 2023
Members of different political parties and organizations delivered a petition at the US Embassy in solidarity with Palestine. See: Image .
19 November 2023
Article on Why international solidarity is important: Perspectives from EmaSwati for Change in the USA. See: Article .
22 November 2023
Incarcerated former Members of Parliament (MPs) Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube were not paid their gratuities as done for all former MPs to adjust to living costs after office. The only reason anyone cannot benefit from this is if they were removed from office for incompetence or misconduct (Finance Circular No. 2 of 2013) and the two were not removed from office. Notably, the MPs were receiving their monthly salaries while in jail until the dissolution of Parliament this year, according to their lawyer Ben J Simelane. See below the political analysis of the balance of political forces in the Mass Democratic Movement and reflection on the Swazi struggle. See: Article 1, Article 2.
23 November 2023
The Mbabane Government Hospitals Outpatients Department (OPD) turned away over a 100 patients since there were no doctors on duty. The OPD normally has two doctors available which seems to be already too few for the population served. They also mention that this is not the first time this has happened. See: Article .
29 November 2023
The Secretary General of the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT), Lot Vilakati, encouraged teachers at schools to embrace transgender students. He emphasized the importance of gender equality and how the SNAT constitution is against discrimination of any kind. He said schools are not churches, they should not let pupils drop out from bullying related to being queer or transgender. About six cases of Gender Based Violence (GBV) appeared at courts and the numbers are reported to be rising in the past few weeks. See: Article 1, Article 2.
01 December 2023
The Principal Planning Officer in the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development, Siphiwe Dlamini asserts that the government is poorly managing the economy of Eswatini. She cited the high unemployment rate of about 33 percent and a low Human Capital Index of 37 percent. She said the government needed to invest in quality education and health. She mentioned the government's poor service delivery and how it also suffocates the private sector's growth. She said the country was poorly managed, resulting in the slow growth and fiscal crisis the government is facing. See: Article .
02 December 2023
Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo says the government can forgive people coming back from exile who were involved in exposing the regime for the June 2021 unrest if they were accountable for their deeds. This was in response to resigned and exiled police officer Cebile “Cece” Shongwe talking about their plights of exile. Cece mentioned how some comrades published sensitive stories while she was in the country, threatening her safety which forced her into exile and she left before applying for an international passport. She has complained about not being assisted with rent and other costs as she has no means to make a living in exile. The spokesperson said that if these exiles gave them information about all their activities during the unrest, they would be granted full immunity. Cece responded that she has never committed a crime and that the government should release the two incarcerated former Members of Parliament, Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube. She said she viewed this as a trap. Elected Member of Parliament (MP) Nomalungelo “LaZwide” Simelane, under Siphofaneni inkhundla places her government mandate to advocate for an all inclusive political dialogue. She said she is also seeking justice for victims of the June 2021 unrest. See: Article 1, Article 2.
04 December 2023
Exiled warder Bhekani Magagula alleges that warders were involved in the killing of EmaSwati during the June 2021 unrest, where they would leave with at least 20 live rounds of ammunition and return with none and he saw this through the ammunition registry book. He said he doesn't regret leaving His Majesty's Correctional lService (HMCS) because they were allegedly involved in the killing of innocent emaSwati. He becried the struggle of being in exile where they have been forced to sometimes go for a week with no food and blamed a leader they refer to as “Bhabuli” for this as he received the money to take care of them and was not doing due diligence. See: Article .
06 December 2023
The incarcerated former Members of Parliament (MPs), Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube addressed the public after their court appearance saying they will not back down and that they are not shaken. Their sentencing was postponed to February 20, 2024 after the Advocate representing the MPs, Jacobus Van Vuurren, was indisposed. The MPs were convicted on June 1, 2023 as they were found guilty for inciting the June 2021 unrest, murder and under the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008. The two have been incarcerated since July 26, 2021 (28 months). International bodies such as Amnesty international continue to call for their release with trumped up charges they are facing. Their case keeps being postponed and one of their complaints is that they are already serving a sentence without being sentenced. Exiled former police officer Cebile “Cece” Shongwe resigned from the People's United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO). Cece left during the unrest after exposing the then army commander, Jeffrey Shabalala, for his hand in the unrest. She cited her leave from the party due to being for personal and irreconcilable reasons. Her complaints have also been around the struggle of life in exile, that those assisting her have stopped paying rent and the nature of comrades to be womanizers. See: Article 1, Article 2, Video .
07 December 2023
The new Health Crisis sub-committee formed by the government to solve the ongoing medical drugs shortage in the country learnt that the government failed to pay E 85 000 to the Central Medical Stores (CMS) so that they could install security equipment to curb stealing of drugs when they were being delivered to hospitals. This led to drugs being stolen during transportation as the company did not have CCTV cameras to monitor their safety, according to CMS. See: Article .
08 December 2023
The University of Eswatini postpones the enrollment of first year full-time students to August 2024. This comes in the midst of financial challenges the University has been facing. Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) leads a march against Gender Based Violence, calling for it to be declared a national disaster. See: Article , Video .
10 December 2023
Newly appointed Minister of Justice, Prince Simelane says there should be random countrywide raids each month to curb crime. He also proposed having 24 hour roadblocks in specific places of the country. He referred to Lesotho as an example where the army took over from the police to do these activities to curb crime and lead to a peaceful country. The Minister advocated for increasing the number of security forces hired in the country, together with the equipment they need to do this work. See political analysis of the Swazi situation and consolidation of Tinkhundla. See: Video , Article .
14 December 2023
The newly appointed Prime Minister Russell Dlamini says that the Tinkhundla system of government is good politically, it just needs some modernizing and rebranding. He said they need to work on being close to the people they serve by creating job opportunities and keeping the public informed about how the administration works. He mentioned the need to teach how the system works at schools. See: Article .
15 December 2023
Andrew Le Roux, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Montigny Investments, alleges that the Federation of Eswatini Business Community (FESBC) is a terrorist group. This came after FESBC wrote a letter to the Eswatini Competition Commission requesting for them to investigate the forestry industry for anti-competitiveness by Montigny. Le Roux alleged that FESBC put red stickers on businesses that were part of it so that they could not be attacked during the unrest and that a majority of businesses affected as a result were multinational companies. He also alleged that FESBC is a member of the MultiStakeholder Forum (MSF) which allegedly promoted unrest in the country. See: Article 1, Article 2.
16 December 2023
The leaders of Sive SiyiNqaba Movement and the Swaziland Democratic Party (SWADEPA) respond to a government statement that was issued 11 December 2023, alleging that they traveled to China in plans to start a new wave of unrest in the country. The parties said they traveled to China as part of the China Peoples Institute of Foreign Affairs to learn about their political system and explore business opportunities with them. They mentioned their interest in this seeing that the country did not have formal ties with China even though they were their second largest trading partner and that they had political parties and their system was a peaceful one. See: Article .
18 December 2023
Inyatsi Group Holdings demands E200 million from the Federation of Eswatini Business Community (FESBC) for damages incurred by the company as a result of making allegations they claim they did not conduct proper investigations. They allege the FESBC made defamatory statements against the group. This comes after FESBC alleged that Inyatsi is unfair competition for local businesses, unlawful tax practices and that they should be investigated. They alleged that Inyatsi is involved in the acquisition of businesses in a manner that shows unlawful competition practices and corruption in relation to the royal family. FESBC also alleged that Inyatsi was immune to legal practices related to conducting business in Eswatini because of their close relations with the royal family. King Mswati III receives gifts worth over E16 million for Incwala proceedings. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
22 December 2023
Two police officers are arrested by the Organised Crime Unit (Tingculungculu) in relation to corruption charges. They allegedly stole and illegally sold green chert (quartz). The officers are Mancoba Peter Vilakati who is based at the Pigg’s Peak Police station and Bakhona Nick Moyane who works with the Royal Residence Protection Unit. The chert comes from illegal mining activities allegedly taking place around Malolotja Nature Reserve. See: Article .
23 December 2023
The Federation of Eswatini Business Community (FESBC) announces that they have formed a Safety and Security Department, led by the former Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Commander (UEDF), Jeffrey Gubuzumlambo Shabalala. This comes after the organization issued a statement alleging that some companies are involved in anti competitive practices and corruption. They also allege that there are companies laundering money via Mauritius. They say they have been getting intimidated by certain businesses to the extent that members are resorting to carrying guns for safety. Patients at the Mbabane Government hospital are discharging themselves without doctors recommendations due to the ongoing drug shortages in the country. When members of the Times of Eswatini visited the hospital, most beds were empty and the remaining patients were those who could afford to buy medicines from pharmacies. The Secretary General of the Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union, Mayibongwe Masangane, said they are waiting on the appointed government sub-committee to deal with the drug shortage crisis in the country to deliver on their promises. See: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3.
24 December 2023
The bail application filed by the incarcerated son to Mduduzi “Magawugawu” Simelane, Zweli Simelane and his co-accused Jabulani Simelane fails to take off. This comes after the duty judge for the week was replaced by a different judge, which led to their lawyer complaining about it. Their case was postponed to February 2024. The two are facing charges under the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008, murder and robbery. They have alleged that they have been severely tortured by the police since being in custody. Zweli claims the exhibits found at his house belonged to members of the Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO) who occasionally stayed at their homestead. Zweli has also said the charges against him are trumped up considering that he is an amputee and used crutches to walk around. He said being in the detention facility, he has no accommodations for his disability which violates the Convention on the Rights of Peoples with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol Convention. Chairperson of the Multi Stakeholder Forum (MSF), Sicelo Mngomezulu, says his position in the Mass Democratic Movement (MDM) has been exaggerated. This comes after allegations by some solidarity forces members in exile alleging that he is part of the top people in the struggle who are misusing the donor funds meant to support those in exile. In the allegations made by exiled warder, Bheka Magagula, President of PUDEMO, Mlungisi Makhanya is also named as being a leader of the solidarity forces, together with Bheki Mabuza, who is Bacede Mabuza's brother. Mngomezulu said one of his aims as the leader of MSF is to unite the democratic movement and will work on bringing back SWALIMO and SWADEPA to the organization. See: Article 1, Article 2.
26 December 2023
Government spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo issues a statement addressed to media houses inside and outside the country saying that the government is ready to address and face any negative narratives being spread about the King and the country in 2024. See: Statement .
29 December 2023
Government spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo releases a statement saying that the Maginksy Human Rights has made fabricated statements against the government in relation to the assassination of Thulani Maseko. They say the narrative is one that is perpetuating hatred against King Mswati III and that his widow, Tanele Maseko is doing these shows to get money. THey allege that Swaziland News was in collaboration trying to tarnish the King's image by associating Thulanis murder with him. They say they are investigating the assassination of the activist and progress has been made. Notably, Tanele Maseko is still not aware of this progress as of January 2024. See: Statement , Podcast .
02 January 2024
A 22 year old man from Mkhuzweni was shot in the stomach by a soldier from the Nkoyoyo Army Barracks after finding the man with his girlfriend. See: Article .
03 January 2024
Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini met with the Federation of Eswatini Business Community (FESBC) where he issued a statement after the meeting saying they advised the entity against confronting other businesses. This comes after FESBC alleged that the Inyatsi group was involved in unfair business practices. They were encouraged to seek peaceful means to resolve the issue through the right channels. See: Statement , Article .
08 January 2024
Incarcerated former Member of Parliament (MP) Bacede Mabuza is placed on a six month communication and visitation ban after being found guilty of illegal possession of a prohibited article. This comes after an application by his wives and children that they had been denied visitation without any lawful cause. See: Article .
11 January 2024
A 45 year old man, who was suspected to be part of a car robbery syndicate, was fatally shot by police while on the run. Sicelo Vilane, who was alleged to be involved in the countrywide petrol bombings of Tinkhundla centers in 2006, is reported to have died. Sicelo was an activist working to avert the Vuvulane evictions. See more about his life in the article below. See: Article 1 , Article 2 .
15 January 2024
Incarcerated Member of Parliament's son, Zweli Simelane and his co-accused, Jabulani Simelane, who were arrested on terrorism charges, claim that the Chief JusticeBheki Maphalala is interfering with their case. They filed an application to have Justice Mavuso recused from presiding over their bail application. Judge Mavuso was reassigned to their case in December 2023. The African National Congress (ANC) president, Cyril Ramaphosa urges people to continue to stand with the people of Eswatini as they seek democracy. See: Article 1 , Article 2 .
17 January 2024
Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla visits the children of deceased unrest security forces officers. These were the officers allegedly killed by members of the solidarity forces. This was reportedly the second family she was visiting. She has notably not visited any family members of families of civilians from the civil unrest in June 2021. See: Article .
20 January 2024
The government spokesperson, Alpheous Nxumalo, announces that the government has cut communication ties with Swaziland News editor, Zweli Martin Dlamini, who was declared a terrorist entity. Assassinated human rights lawyer's wife, Tanele Maseko, hosts an unveiling of his tombstone in commemoration of his demise a year later. See: Statement , Article 1 , Article 2 .
22 January 2024
One year after the assassination of human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko, there has been no progress in his investigation. The R30 million that was set to be utilized for the national dialogue in the 2023 fiscal year is said to have been used for the Sibaya in October and November 2023. There is no existing breakdown of the utilization of the fund to the public. Notably, this dialogue was mainly to pick the new Prime Minister and did not involve civil society from political parties and opposition groups. See: Artice 1 , Artice 2 , Artice 3 , Artice 4 , Artice 5 , Artice 6 ,Press Release .
23 January 2024
SwaziPharm announces that they will be destroying about R20 million worth of expired drug supplies because they were trying to fulfill stock orders from the government and they were never ordered based on their tender agreements. They blamed the government's failure to order these drugs in a timely manner, especially in the past 12 months. See: Article .
27 January 2024
The Human Rights Watch report on Eswatini highlights the assassination of prominent human rights lawyer, Thulani Maseko, exiling of activists and the lack of justice into these. They note that the much recommended dialogue by SADC and the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights (ACGPR) has not been instituted. See: Report .
29 January 2024
The Phalala Medical Referral fund stops taking in new patients due to over R250 million debts. The fund is responsible for helping sick citizens with less funds, to gain access to healthcare in South Africa that is not available in Eswatini, sometimes in local private hospitals. See video on the broken educational system in Swaziland by Velaphi Mamba. See: Article , Video .
30 January 2024
The government announces that they have it in budget to hire about 1 000 teachers on a permanent contract. This comes after years of a hiring freeze for teachers who have mostly relied on being contract workers. Some teachers are reported to have been on contract for more than 10 years. Incarcerated members of the Swaziland Solidarity Forces (SISF) are alleged to be offered food once a week and no blankets in the Matsapha Maximum Prison. See: Article 1 , Article 2 .
01 February 2024
The President of the Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS) Gabie Ndukuya is detained by the police for hours and interrogated after a planned protest seeking jobs and scholarships for all. See: Article .
04 February 2024
The office of the registrar of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (Act) of 2018 is reported to still not be in existence. This is despite the extremely high numbers of Gender Based Violence (GBC) cases in Eswatini. See: Article .
06 February 2024
Times of Eswatini reports that there are at least 16 people sought after by the police in relation to the June 2021 unrest. The people are alleged to have committed “terrorist” crimes and to be hiding outside Eswatini. This was contained in court papers opposing bail to three incarcerated students and Communist Party of Swaziland members: Mayibongwe Pupu Nyawo, Bonginkhosi Nkambule and Menzi Bhembe. The three were arrested for allegedly burning a police car and the national flag around 30 September 2023. See: Article .
09 February 2024
The 12th parliament of Eswatini is opened by a speech from King Mswati III. Notably, he says they should prioritize forming an anti corruption task force to curb rising corruption, work to enhance service delivery and address the issue of unemployment. Member of Parliament Nomalungelo “LaZwide” Simelane (wife to exiled MP Mduduzi “Magawugawu” Simelane) is reported to have missed the opening parliaments photoshoot with the King and Queen mother. She is reported to leave the sitting right after the King's speech. The Minister did not wear the kanga (lihiya) other members wore that had a signature of the lion, signifying the King, she wore a different one. See: Video , Article .
11 February 2024
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EEF) in South Africa declare their support for Eswatinis political struggles. Julius Malema says they will ensure that SADC investigates the crimes against humanity committed by King Mswati III. The King's spokesperson, Percy Simelane says the party's wishes are too far fetched. See: Article .
13 February 2024
The Multi Stakeholder Forum (MSF), a coalition of NGOs and political parties in Eswatini, announces a new scholarship scheme called the Mngomezulu Eswatini Bursary Scheme, worth about R0.5 million to aid pupils enrolling in high school and tertiary education to pay for their fees. According to the MSF spokesperson, Sivumelwano Nyembe, the scholarship would be key in supporting people from disadvantaged backgrounds, people with disabilities and children of families impacted by the June 2021 unrest, political beliefs. The link for the application is attached. See: Article 1 , Application , Article 2 .
14 February 2024
Newly elected Prime Minister, Russell Dlamini, marks 100 days in office and makes highlights of progress in relation to submissions made by citizens during Sibaya submissions. He emphasized his intention to prioritize those submissions, aim for high performance and increased social media presence since he took oath in office. He notably mentioned a newly formed task team to fight corruption (Anti-Corruption Task Team). See: Article .
15 February 2024
The lawyer representing incarcerated Members of Parliament, Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube, Professor Dlamini, is stopped from communicating with his clients by the government. See: Article .
17 February 2024
The New York Times publishes an article about Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS) activist Manqoba Motsa’s plight, the contradictions of living with a family that supports the monarch. The story is published even on the international newspapers social media pages, making a very prominent statement at the same time the Emaganu ceremony is going on. Siyatfutfuka members allege they are being victimized for making Sibaya submissions that were thought to be criticizing executives of co-operatives for their roles in using money allocated by government responsibly. The members alleged that they were not being given their dividends as backlash against them for speaking up. The Swatini Action Group Against Abuse (SWAGAA) reports there have been reports of about 24 312 Gender Based Violence cases in Eswatini between 2020 and 2023. The government of Eswatini files extradition papers in the High court of Mpumalanga to have Zweli Martin Dlamini brought to Swaziland on charges of terrorism. See: Article 1 , Article 2 , Article 3 , Article 4 , Article 5 .