Eswatini Protesters Rally Against US Deportation Deal

Demonstrators accuse King Mswati III of profiting while citizens suffer in poverty

On Friday, pro-democracy activists from Eswatini staged a demonstration outside the United States Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa. The protesters voiced their anger over reports of a deportation deal between Washington and Eswatini’s monarchy that would see migrants expelled from the US sent back to the southern African kingdom. The gathering underscored growing discontent with King Mswati III’s leadership and raised questions about transparency and accountability in Eswatini’s governance.

Allegations of a $500 Million Agreement

Protesters accused King Mswati III of striking the deportation deal in exchange for personal financial benefit. They claimed the king had allegedly accepted up to $500 million from the US government to facilitate the return of deported migrants. Activists argued that the money would not be used to improve the lives of ordinary Swazi citizens but would instead bolster the monarchy’s power and luxury.

Voices from the Protest

Philile Khumalo, one of the protest organizers, highlighted the dire state of social and economic conditions in Eswatini. “Swaziland is the second highest in suicide rates in Africa,” she said. “That’s due to deep poverty and social issues. Yet the king can make a $500 million deal with the U.S., and none of that will help the people. That’s why we’re here today.” Her remarks captured the frustration of many Swazis who feel abandoned by their leaders in the face of deepening hardship.

Criticism of the Monarchy

The protest also gave a platform to opposition voices who believe that such deals only serve to entrench the monarchy. Sakhile Nxumalo, president of the Swaziland Youth Congress, was especially critical. “These billions won’t fight crime or help people,” he said. “They’ll just sustain the king, his 15 wives, and his lavish lifestyle.” Nxumalo’s comments reflect a broader sentiment that King Mswati III’s rule has prioritized royal extravagance over national development.

A Nation in Crisis

Eswatini is often described as Africa’s last absolute monarchy, where political parties are restricted, dissent is suppressed, and the king wields sweeping authority. Despite its classification as a lower middle-income country, the majority of the population struggles in poverty. Official statistics show that 63% of Eswatini’s people live below the poverty line, and youth unemployment has soared to an alarming 58%, one of the highest levels worldwide. This stark reality contrasts sharply with the king’s well-documented displays of wealth, which remain a source of outrage among citizens.

Growing Frustration with Inequality

The embassy protest was not just about the deportation deal. It also reflected the long-standing frustration over inequality, poor governance, and the absence of political freedom in Eswatini. Protesters chanted slogans calling for an end to the monarchy, demanding democratic reforms and greater accountability from their leaders. For many, the deportation deal became a symbol of how the monarchy prioritizes its own survival over the needs of the people.

International Implications

The involvement of the US government has drawn global attention to the issue. Critics argue that by making agreements with King Mswati III, Washington risks legitimizing a regime accused of suppressing human rights. Activists have called on the US to reconsider its role and instead prioritize support for the Swazi people through development aid, education, and job creation initiatives. They fear that financial deals with the monarchy only entrench authoritarianism.

Call for Accountability

Protesters urged both the US and Eswatini governments to abandon the agreement and redirect resources toward initiatives that directly benefit citizens. They demanded policies that address unemployment, poverty, and healthcare crises rather than funding royal excess. The demonstrators stressed that the well-being of Swazi citizens should be the primary concern in any international partnership.

Omega Tv UK celebrates ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY, we wish to thank all our viewers for helping us reach this milestone.

Happy 1st anniversary to Omega TV UK!.

A Growing Movement

Friday’s protest in Pretoria was another sign of a growing movement for democracy and social justice in Eswatini. As activists continue to mobilize both domestically and abroad, pressure is mounting on King Mswati III and his government to address deep-rooted inequalities. The reported $500 million deportation deal has sparked outrage, but it has also amplified the voices of citizens demanding a future free from absolute monarchy and marked by accountability, fairness, and hope.

About The Author