Pro-democracy activists from Eswatini formerly known as Swaziland have staged a protest outside the United States Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa.
The protesters on Friday, voiced opposition to a reported deal between the U.S. government and Eswatini’s monarchy that would see deported migrants returned to the southern African kingdom.
They accused King Mswati III, Africa’s last absolute monarch, of allegedly accepting up to $500 million in exchange for the deal, insisting that it offered no benefit to ordinary Swazi citizens.
The protest organizer, Philile Khumalo said; “Swaziland is the second highest in suicide rates in Africa… 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.”
The protest highlighted broader frustrations with Eswatini’s economic inequalities and authoritarian rule. Demonstrators called for an end to the monarchy and demanded accountability.
Sakhile Nxumalo, president of the Swaziland Youth Congress, said the deal would only strengthen the royal family’s grip on power.
He said; “These billions won’t fight crime or help people.
“They’ll just sustain the king, his 15 wives, and his lavish lifestyle.”
Eswatini is classified as a lower middle-income country, but 63% of its population lives below the poverty line, and youth unemployment stands at a staggering 58%, among the highest rates globally.
Protesters are urging both the U.S. and Eswatini governments to reconsider the agreement and prioritize the well-being and rights of the Swazi people.
Africanews/Shakirat Sadiq