Pro-democracy protests in eSwatini, previously known as Swaziland, have left at least one person dead and around 80 others injured. Protests led by students, civil servants and transport workers flared up about two weeks ago; things turned violent in Africa’s last absolute monarchy yesterday when security forces used live ammunition against protesting nurses, about 30 of whom were injured. 😓 The kingdom also cut access to the internet yesterday, making it difficult for citizens to share information and images of the protests with each other and online.
eSwatini is led by King Mswati III, who lives lavishly with 15 wives while ordinary citizens grapple with extreme poverty. The latest burst of violence has prompted President Cyril Ramaphosa, who chairs the Southern African Development Community, to send high-level envoys to the neighbouring country to engage King Mswati III on “security and political developments”, Al Jazeera reported. The news organisation added that security forces have fired tear gas and rubber bullets at even small gatherings. Concerned citizens say the king is looking for a war by deploying armed forces against protesters.
This article appeared as part of The Wrap, 21 October 2021. Sign up to receive our weekly updates.
