Africa-Press – Eswatini. Brian Sangweni, the National Spokesperson of the People’s United Democratic Movement(PUDEMO) has released a statement on behalf the political organization, condemning the prohibition of a prayer gathering by Mswati’s government that was scheduled to take place at Motjane last weekend.
Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo had not responded at the time of compiling this report.
A battalion of armed police invaded Nduna Royal Kraal where Christians from close to forty(40) churches were gathering for the beginning of the year service.
“The People’s United DemocraticMovement (PUDEMO) strongly condemns the recent prohibition of a prayer gathering scheduled to take place at Motjane over the weekend as reported by the Times of Eswatini in its today’s publication.This prayer, organized by the community, was unjustly prohibited by the state allegedly due to the anticipated presence of PUDEMO members.Such unwarranted state interference in the people’s right to assemble and practice their beliefs is appalling and merits utmost condemnation.It is imperative for the state to recognize that PUDEMO is the people, and any attempts to suppress its presence will mean the prohibition of all people’s gatherings”, said the PUDEMO National Spokesperson.
The Spokesperson further described the actions by the State as a dangerous precedent,suggesting that any gathering of the people may be
subject to prohibition if it does not align with the State’s agenda.
“Furthermore,it is hypocritical for the State to claim to uphold freedom of religion while simultaneously attempting to micromanage religious practices. The constitution, upon which the state is anchored, guarantees the right to freedom of religion,yet this fundamental right is being flagrantly disregarded.
PUDEMO unequivocally denounces this paranoid and oppressive behaviour by the Swazi state, which blatantly infringes upon the rights and freedoms of the people. Religious gatherings should not be subject to arbitrary restrictions, and it is unacceptable that permission for such gatherings is contingent upon the participation of the state or royal family.In light of these egregious actions, PUDEMO calls upon the state to respect the rights of its citizens and cease its unwarranted interference in religious and community activities.We urge all citizens to stand together in defence of our freedoms and rights guaranteed by law,”reads the statement released by the PUDEMO National Spokesperson.
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