In a strongly worded statement released today, the Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO) expressed deep concern over the Republic of South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC) government’s friendly approach towards King Mswati III, the reigning monarch of Eswatini. The statement, issued by SWALIMO spokesperson Thantaza N Silolo, criticized the ANC government, particularly President Cyril Ramaphosa, for extending what SWALIMO perceives as undue recognition to the oppressive regime of King Mswati III.

According to SWALIMO, while the ANC as a political movement has voiced support for the oppressed people of Eswatini through numerous declarations and resolutions, the ANC government’s actions paint a contradictory picture. SWALIMO alleges that King Mswati III is being treated as an honorable statesman in Pretoria, highlighting a concerning level of friendship and recognition between the two governments.

The statement goes on to question the motives behind the warm relations between the Union Buildings in Pretoria and the Lozitha Palace in Eswatini, suggesting that diplomatic protocols alone cannot justify the extent of camaraderie exhibited between the two leaders. SWALIMO emphasizes that King Mswati III’s regime is marked by oppression, violence, and disregard for international protocols, with many Swazis having suffered at the hands of security forces, while others remain imprisoned or in exile.

Drawing a parallel with South Africa’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people, SWALIMO urges the ANC government to reconsider its stance on solidarity and take decisive action to isolate King Mswati III. The movement calls for a cessation of recognition and support to the Eswatini monarch, citing his disregard for regional and international advisories, including the recent snubbing of SADC Troika leaders on the issue of national political dialogue.

The statement concludes with a plea for the ANC government to uphold its commitment to solidarity with the oppressed and to intensify efforts to isolate King Mswati III on the international stage. SWALIMO warns that failure to do so would embolden the monarch to further perpetrate acts of oppression and violence against the people of Eswatini.

The statement issued by SWALIMO underscores the growing tension between the ANC government’s diplomatic engagements and its professed solidarity with the oppressed, signaling a rift in the longstanding relationship between South Africa and Eswatini.