By Maxwell Dlamini
Africa-Press – Eswatini. Times editor Mfanukhona Nkambule’s analysis of the potential for another civil unrest in Eswatini is fundamentally flawed, primarily due to its lack of a thorough understanding of the country’s socio-economic and political context.
Indeed,his arguments are dismissive of the deep-seated issues driving civil unrest and overlook the critical socio-economic dynamics that exacerbate tensions.
This critique will address the gaps in Nkambule’s article, focusing on the dire socio-economic conditions, the historical and ideological underpinnings of civil unrest, and the specific grievances of various segments of Eswatini’s society.
Nkambule’s article underestimates the severe socio-economic challenges facing Eswatini, which are key drivers of potential unrest.
The nation is grappling with extreme poverty, widespread unemployment, and economic mismanagement.
According to the World Bank’s 2023 report, Eswatini’s unemployment rate stands at 23.6%, with youth unemployment even higher. This economic hardship creates fertile ground for discontent and unrest.
Moreover, reports from the International Labour Organization (2023) highlight the exploitation of workers in industrial sectors, where poor working conditions and low wages are rampant.
For instance, workers at the Maloma Colliery, Eswatini’s largest coal mine, have reported long hours, inadequate safety measures, and meager compensation.
Such exploitation not only fuels economic frustration but also heightens the potential for collective action against the government.
Nkambule’s analysis lacks a comprehensive understanding of the historical and ideological roots of civil unrest in Eswatini.
The 2021 unrest was not an isolated incident but a manifestation of long-standing grievances against the Tinkhundla system of governance, which centralizes power and limits political freedoms.
As highlighted by scholars like Bhekithemba Mngomezulu in “The Political Economy of Swaziland” (2018), the Tinkhundla system’s repressive nature and the monarchy’s tight grip on power have historically suppressed dissent and prevented meaningful political reforms.
Nkambule’s assertion that civil unrest in Eswatini is unlikely because the country’s political culture is averse to disruption ignores the historical pattern of resistance.
The 1973 ban on political parties and the subsequent repression of political dissent are critical historical events that contextualize current unrest. As argued by Kenneth Good in “The Politics of the Swazi Monarchy” (2020), historical grievances and the lack of political reforms are key factors in fueling ongoing discontent.
The article fails to address the human rights abuses that significantly contribute to the risk of further unrest. Amnesty International’s 2023 report details widespread violations in Eswatini, including the use of excessive force by security forces, arbitrary arrests, and restrictions on freedom of expression.The brutal response to protests, including the killing of demonstrators and the arrest of activists,creates an atmosphere of fear and anger.
The plight of students and youth is particularly concerning. Universities have witnessed protests over issues such as high tuition fees and inadequate facilities.The suppression of student activism and the criminalization of dissent only exacerbate frustrations among young people,who are critical actors in mobilizing for change.
Nkambule’s article overlooks the grievances of various sectors, including workers, police, and security forces, who are crucial in understanding the potential for unrest. Workers, particularly in the industrial sector, face exploitation and underpayment. Additionally, police and security forces are often underpaid,work long hours, and face corruption in recruitment and promotions. Reports from the Security Forces Staff Associations reveal widespread dissatisfaction with their working conditions and compensation.
The stark contrast between the regime’s extravagant lifestyle and the poverty faced by ordinary citizens further fuels resentment.
The monarchy’s lavish spending on palaces and ceremonies, while a significant portion of the population struggles with basic needs,highlights the regime’s disregard for the economic hardships of its citizens. Such disparities intensify feelings of injustice and can drive further unrest.
Nkambule’s article fails to acknowledge the impact of land grabs and evictions on the socio-political climate in Eswatini. Land dispossession has been a recurring issue, with many rural communities facing forced evictions to make way for development projects that benefit the elite.The land grabs, coupled with inadequate compensation for displaced communities,have led to heightened tensions and resistance.
Reports from the Human Rights Resources document numerous cases of forced evictions and land disputes, which are catalysts for local unrest.
The frustration over land rights and displacement underscores the broader grievances related to socio-economic inequality and the lack of access to resources.
Nkambule’s reliance on political predictions and the argument that Eswatini is unlikely to experience another wave of unrest due to its historical aversion to disruption is fundamentally flawed.
Political predictions, while useful, do not account for the immediate and pressing socio-economic grievances that can ignite unrest.
The article’s focus on theoretical political predictions overlooks the tangible and escalating issues affecting the lives of ordinary citizens.
In conclusion, Nkambule’s article presents a superficial analysis of the factors contributing to civil unrest in Eswatini. By neglecting the severe socio-economic conditions, historical context, human rights violations,and specific grievances of workers, students,and displaced communities,the article fails to provide a comprehensive understanding of the risks facing Eswatini.
The underlying issues of poverty, exploitation, and political repression create a volatile environment where civil unrest is not only likely but imminent.
The critical need for addressing these issues and fostering genuine political reform is essential to preventing further unrest and achieving long-term stability in Eswatini.
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