Times Of Swaziland: FAILURE TO RESPECT CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS

FAILURE TO RESPECT CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS
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Alex Nxumalo on 12/01/2025 07:32:00


Although the Times of Eswatini, the foremost newspaper in the nation, has
recently covered this alarming incident, I deemed it necessary to discuss the
issue further.
The brutal and inhumane attack on Bhekumuzi Malinga, a 30-year-old warrior who
was savagely assaulted by two unidentified assailants armed with a bush knife
while returning home from the Incwala Ceremony at Ngabezweni Royal Residence
approximately a week or two ago, must be unequivocally condemned by all
peace-loving emaSwati.
It was reported by the publication that the assault led to significant injuries
to Malinga’s head, and while it is said that he courageously attempted to
protect himself from his assailants, he tragically lost two fingers (the pinkie
and ring fingers) due to the actions of the two antagonists.
This event occurred on a Saturday night at Mhlaleni/New Village Road about two
weeks ago.
According to the newspaper report, Malinga stated that the attackers had
expressed derogatory remarks about his loyalty to the King and his (Malinga’s)
participation in the Incwala Ceremony prior to their violent assault. Without
any shadow of doubt, we are a sick and divided nation infamously known for our
failure to respect the constitutional rights of others, such as freedom of
association, freedom of expression, etc.
A significant and conspicuous rift exists between proponents of the Eswatini
Government system and those advocating for democratic governance.
This divide has engendered animosity and a diminished tolerance for divergent
viewpoints, culminating in a polarised political landscape that hinders dialogue
and reconciliation endeavours.
Particular
As a columnist, I have the unique opportunity to engage with a diverse array of
individuals on a multitude of subjects, with a particular focus on the intricate
and often tumultuous landscape of our nation’s politics. However, the current
political climate is undeniably disheartening. During my interactions, I
frequently encounter a significant number of people who openly express their
deep-seated dissatisfaction with the way government operates.
Their voices resonate with frustration as they articulate their concerns about
pervasive issues such as corruption, nepotism and systemic injustice.  These
sentiments are not merely isolated complaints; they reflect a broader
disillusionment with the institutions that are meant to serve the public good.
Many individuals feel that their voices are drowned out by the powerful elite,
leading to a sense of helplessness and despair.
The reality of this situation is challenging to confront. It forces us to
grapple with the uncomfortable truth that many citizens feel alienated from the
very systems designed to protect their rights and promote their welfare. The
erosion of trust in government institutions is palpable, and it raises critical
questions about accountability, transparency and the fundamental principles of
democracy.
As I listen to these concerns, I am reminded of the importance of fostering open
dialogue and encouraging civic engagement.  It is essential to not only
acknowledge these frustrations, but also to explore potential solutions and
avenues for reform. While the path forward may seem daunting, it is crucial to
remain hopeful and committed to advocating for change.
By amplifying the voices of those who feel marginalised and holding our leaders
accountable, we can work towards a more just and equitable society.  Ultimately,
it is through collective action and persistent dialogue that we can begin to
address the deep-rooted issues plaguing our Eswatini political landscape and
restore faith in our democratic institutions. Supporters of the current system
of government maintain that the nation functions democratically and upholds the
constitutional rights of its populace.
They argue that the monarchy ensures stability and continuity, crucial for
national development.  Advocates of government often emphasise the array of
initiatives and programmes implemented to enhance citizens’ quality of life,
asserting that these endeavours demonstrate a dedication to the welfare of the
people. They posit that the existing system enables a distinctive governance
approach that harmonises tradition with modernity, dismissing calls for reform
as ill-informed or influenced by external factors lacking insight into local
dynamics.
In contrast, champions of democracy contend that the current system is divisive,
undemocratic, autocratic and actively suppresses demands for democratic change.
They highlight the absence of political diversity, the lack of transparent and
fair elections and the constraints on civil rights as indications of a regime
prioritising control over popular sovereignty. These critics argue that
government’s professed adherence to democratic principles is superficial and
overlooks key issues of representation and answerability.They assert that the
prevailing system quells dissent and marginalises dissenting voices challenging
the status quo, fostering an atmosphere of fear and oppression.
Fundamental
This fundamental disagreement regarding governance in Eswatini has not only
widened the gulf between the two factions, but has also heightened societal
tensions. The inability to partake in constructive and inclusive dialogues has
nurtured an environment conducive to animosity, where individuals often hesitate
to voice their opinions due to fear of reprisal.
Consequently, the political discourse remains rife with hostility, impeding
efforts to find common ground or progress towards a more inclusive and
representative governance framework.  In essence, the schism between supporters
of the Eswatini Government and proponents of democratic transformation is
characterised by deeply entrenched convictions and contrasting narratives
pertaining to governance, citizen rights and the nation’s future trajectory.
This polarisation not only impedes advancement, but also presents significant
hurdles to social unity and political steadiness in Eswatini as it navigates its
path forward.As a nation grappling with division and disunity, we need to
understand that the events that unfolded in June 2021 should serve as a poignant
reminder of how intolerance towards differing opinions can escalate into violent
confrontations within our political landscape.
During that fateful month across the nation, protesters advocating for
democratic reforms faced brutal crackdowns in June 2021, with many reportedly
shot and killed by security forces, while others suffered life-altering
injuries. The memories of these occurrences remain vivid for many, etched into
the collective consciousness of a society grappling with the consequences of
political strife.
Both pro-democracy supporters and those aligned with the existing government
faced destruction, as properties were set ablaze or bombed in a chaotic display
of anger and retribution. The violence did not discriminate; casualties included
individuals from both political factions, as well as security personnel caught
in the crossfire. The assassination of prominent and internationally acclaimed
human rights Lawyer Thulani Maseko remains unresolved, with his killers still
unidentified, leaving a lingering sense of injustice and fear among those who
seek accountability.
Additionally, two members of Parliament who supported calls for democracy were
imprisoned and are currently serving their sentences, while one fled into exile,
highlighting the severe repercussions faced by those who dare to challenge the
status quo. A pervasive atmosphere of fear enveloped the nation, casting a long
shadow over daily life. Despite appeals for calm and dialogue from various civil
society groups and international observers, the prevailing tension was so
palpable that it felt as if it could be sliced through.
While government asserts that peace has been restored, many argue that this
peace is merely superficial, a fragile veneer that masks the underlying discord.
Genuine resolution, they contend, can only be achieved through inclusive
dialogue that addresses the root causes of the unrest and fosters a sense of
unity among the populace.
It is also crucial to highlight that the attack on Malinga, the warrior, is not
an isolated incident; it marks a continuation of violence against individuals,
specifically those attending cultural events like the Incwala Ceremony, a
significant cultural event that has become more or less entangled in the
political turmoil. During this period of unrest (June 2021), a man dressed in
traditional attire was shot at Ludzeludze, with attackers accusing him and
others of participating in the Little Incwala at Ngabezweni Royal Residence.
This incident underscores the dangerous intersection of cultural expression and
political dissent, where even traditional ceremonies are not immune to the
violence that has permeated the nation.  Although reports circulated on social
media claiming one warrior had died, it was later revealed that he was in
critical condition when visited in the hospital, further illustrating the human
cost of this ongoing conflict.
As the nation continues to navigate this turbulent landscape, the need for
inclusive dialogue understanding and reconciliation becomes ever more urgent. It
is going to take a direct confrontation with reality and an end to the delusions
we may have about where we stand in Eswatini. Numerous undemocratic tendencies
in the nation are hard to ignore. Such tendencies come in many forms, but
include the systematic silencing of dissent and a failure to respect basic
principles of democracy by both sides of the political divide.
Intolerance of opposing perspectives is well-documented because it silences
healthy debate, which is essential to the functioning of a democratic society.
This kind of intolerance is not acceptable and has frequently led to violence.
Frameworks
I have extensively addressed the subject of emaSwati unity in previous articles,
highlighting its essential role within our society. In my writings, I often
analyse how the prevailing political and social frameworks often impose
limitations on dissenting opinions, leading to an atmosphere of tension and
animosity.  This hostility is frequently directed not only at the system of
government itself, but also at its leaders, who may be viewed as representatives
of the existing order.
Given these obstacles, I contend that acknowledging and embracing our ethnic
identity as emaSwati is crucial. This recognition lays the groundwork for
developing a more unified national identity, one that surpasses individual
distinctions and nurtures a sense of belonging among all community members. By
honouring our collective heritage and cultural values, we can foster a stronger
sense of unity that empowers us to tackle the challenges we face together.
Ultimately, my objective is to stimulate discussion and contemplation regarding
the significance of solidarity among emaSwati, urging us to unite in the quest
for a more harmonious and inclusive society. Through this unity, we can more
effectively navigate the intricacies of our political environment and strive for
a future that respects our diverse identities while advancing the common good.
In conclusion, it is essential to recognise that expressing our frustrations or
dissenting opinions regarding the political beliefs of others through violent
means is not only uncivilised, but also reflects a narrow perspective. Every
individual possesses the democratic right to articulate their views and
associate with.
Let us take heed of the words of the late Bishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu:“Our
maturity will be judged by how well we are able to agree to disagree and yet
continue to love one another, to care for one another and cherish one another
and seek the greater good of the other.”
Peace! Shalom!