A pressing human rights issue in Eswatini

Mandla Mthethwa | Monday September 1, 2025 06:00

Our current case involves Mbongeni Mamba from Macetjeni, who has recently lost his employment at the Central Bank and is now being forced to pay a fine of five cattle. The circumstances are deeply troubling: his only “offence” was refusing to be extorted by the local water-party (Bemanti).

These are people who go about performing rituals around the country’s villages – a disturbing practice for Christians.

What is particularly alarming is how the inner council of Macetjeni has framed this extortion. They do not openly call it a fine. Instead, they have positioned it as a precondition for Mr. Mamba to meet the area’s chief to present his side of the story.

Without payment, he is being denied basic services such as access to the community stamp, which is essential for legal and administrative matters. In practice, this constitutes a clear violation of his fundamental rights.

We believe that highlighting this case in Botswana is essential for several reasons:

· Human Rights Framework: The situation illustrates violations of rights to due process, protection from extortion, and access to essential services, aligning it squarely with internationally recognized human rights standards.

· Regional Implications: By shining a light on these abuses, Mmegi can help create regional awareness and solidarity, encouraging civil society in neighbouring countries to engage with Eswatini’s human rights situation.

· Catalyst for Change: Publicizing cases like this has the potential to galvanize action, creating momentum for broader reforms and protections for ordinary citizens.

We urge Mmegi to consider reporting on this case and, in doing so, help amplify the voices of Eswatini citizens who are often silenced by both traditional authorities and state structures. This is a pivotal moment to seize attention and apply pressure for justice.

We are prepared to provide additional details, documentation, and contacts to support your reporting. Your attention to this matter would not only illuminate the plight of Mbongeni Mamba but also reinforce Botswana’s role as a regional advocate for human rights.

Thank you for your consideration and for your commitment to regional justice.

Sincerely,

*Mandla Mthethwa, Free Swaziland Movement