Situation in Swaziland Extremely Volatile as Pro-Democracy Protesters Promise Escalation of Demonstrations

Image: Times Live

Faizel Patel – 29/06/2021

The Swaziland Solidarity Network (SSN) says the situation on the ground in Swaziland is extremely volatile as pro-democracy protesters promise to escalate their demonstrations.

In a statment, the SSN’s Lucky Lukhele says reports in eSwatini are alleging that King Mswati III has fled in his private jet to an unknown destination.

“These allegations started after his jet was seen flying from Matsapha airport in the evening. Whatever the truth about the king’s whereabouts, the situation on the ground in the country is extremely volatile as supermarkets and industrial plants have been set alight by unknown people while the army has already been deployed to control the situation.”

Lukhele says there are allegations that more than one bystander or protestor has already been killed by the army or the police.

“While we stand by the people of Swaziland in this very difficult period, we wish to urge the international community once again to play a pro-active role in minimizing casualties. The Swazi issue should now be the top priority of the SADC. King Mswati and his cohorts should be held accountable for the mess that the country finds itself in.”

The demonstrations started a few days ago and escalated to a point where some shops were set on fire in Matsapha on Monday night

(Twitter: @FaizelPatel143)

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