WHAT DEMOCRACY SHOULD MEAN TO ESWATINI, AFRICA

As the Kingdom of Eswatini stands at a significant political juncture, contemplation turns towards the future that advocates of reforms, like myself, aspire to realise.

The dominant appeal among those calling for change is a transition towards democracy, perceived as the panacea for the myriad of socio-political and economic challenges confronting the nation. Within our specific context, this transition fundamentally involves the recognition and legitimisation of political parties, which are still prohibited from participating in the electoral process – a practice that starkly contrasts with the democratic norms observed globally.

Under a multiparty democratic system, political entities delineate their platforms through manifestos during electoral campaigns, enabling voters to exercise their electoral choices at polling stations. Unlike the prevailing trend in numerous African countries, where leadership often hinges on hereditary succession, a multiparty system ideally promotes meritocracy. However, it’s important to acknowledge the potential for conflict, particularly in scenarios where State power is misperceived as an entitlement rather than a responsibility – a situation that is not uncommon across the African continent.

Nevertheless, the efficacy of any democratic framework is contingent upon the competency and integrity of its officials. A superficially appealing system can easily falter if its stewards fail in their duties, leading to a loss of public trust and relevance. It is a frequent assertion that politics is inherently corrupt, but I contend that the corruption lies not within the concept of politics, but within those who have perverted the political arena through their unethical actions.

As Eswatini ardently seeks to embrace democracy, it becomes crucial to educate its citizens about the essence of what they are striving for. This goes beyond mere ideological discourse; it is imperative that the populace understands how democratisation can concretely enhance their lives. While the annulment of the 1973 Decree and the inauguration of a multiparty democratic framework are critical steps, achieving a democracy that reflects local values and ideologies necessitates a thorough comprehension of the context. The path towards a functional democratic system must also concentrate on materially improving the lives of the people, rather than being perceived solely as a distant objective. It is evident that citizens should not be placated by a purely symbolic iteration of democracy that remains elusive or idealistic. The quest for genuine democratisation should aim to eliminate nepotism and bias, enhance accountability, curb corruption and promote peace initiatives.

Supported

Additionally, fostering an inclusive society through active and participatory dialogue, at every level of governance, is essential for human development and the protection of human rights and fundamental values. Political institutions that champion these principles must be supported by adequate capacity, including the necessary human and financial resources. Elected officials, positioned at the strategic heart of the system, must prioritise service delivery, ensuring equal opportunities and access to quality education for all. Engaging in deeper, meaningful conversations with our citizens is, therefore, paramount to achieving the vision of a truly democratic Eswatini.

In the contemporary landscape of global politics, there is a palpable recognition that the model of Western democracy is encountering profound challenges across the globe. Nowhere is this more evident than in Africa, where the integrity of democratic values faces conspicuous obstacles that warrant immediate and measured attention. Notably, the political climate in the northern regions of the continent has been marred by a series of coup d’états, underscoring the volatility and the fragile state of governance in these areas. Turning our gaze to South Africa (SA), one observes a fascinating case study. Here is a nation that stands as one of Africa’s youngest democracies and it reveals the complexities and nuances of navigating the political arena in the post-liberation era.

The African National Congress (ANC), the incumbent liberation party, has navigated through three decades of governance, experiencing a spectrum of triumphs and tribulations. The forthcoming elections, scheduled for May 29, 2024, represent a pivotal moment in SA’s democratic journey. Amid the rise of new political entities and the ANC’s notable deficiencies, the upcoming electoral process is poised for significant upheaval and vigorous competition. This crucial junction offers SA an invaluable opportunity to affirm its commitment to the principles of democratic integrity. It is essential for the nation to demonstrate that it is eminently capable of conducting elections that are not only free and fair, but also administered with a level of competence that ensures the outcomes are universally respected. It is imperative that detractors of multiparty democracy find no solace or validation in any potential disruptions that may arise from the electoral process.

Acknowledging the inherent imperfections of any democratic system – as exemplified by a recent experiences in the United States (US) during the Trump administration – underscores the importance of robust institutions and a citizenry deeply anchored in national values and constitutional principles. The challenges faced have illuminated the critical need for unyielding institutional resilience and a populace committed to upholding democratic tenets.

Discussions

As SA and indeed the broader African continent, continues to navigate its path towards a more fortified democratic future, there emerges essential questions related to cultural practices, power dynamics, educational priorities and the role of the monarchy in modern governance. These discussions are pivotal for envisioning the future of democracy in Eswatini and elsewhere. Regrettably, these vital conversations are often confined to political symposiums and digital forums, thereby excluding a significant portion of the population from engaging in these crucial discourses. To truly foster a comprehensive and inclusive debate on the future trajectory of our nation, it is incumbent upon us to establish more forums and platforms dedicated to the rigorous examination and refinement of our collective views on democracy. Only through such sustained engagement and dialogue can we hope to address the pressing challenges confronting our democratic institutions and ensure a prosperous and democratic future for all citizens.

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