Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Office of the Prime Minister has reassured the nation that the five deportees recently repatriated from the United States are being fully catered for by the US government — with Eswatini incurring absolutely no financial burden.
This clarification comes in response to questions raised by Members of Parliament, seeking transparency and legal assurance surrounding the arrival of the five individuals. These US deportees, sometimes referred to in parliamentary commentary as “lecturers” — are temporarily in the country and occupy minimal capacity, despite concerns about local prison overcrowding.
A Bilateral Understanding Based on Mutual Respect
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the repatriation was carried out within the framework of a bilateral agreement, which considered both diplomatic relations and the political sanctity of the Kingdom. This partnership promotes the mutual interests of Eswatini and the United States, and is seen as a step forward in strengthening foreign relations.
Importantly, Eswatini’s government has confirmed that no serious money changed hands in the process. All welfare costs, including the current upkeep and future repatriation of the five individuals, are being handled entirely by the United States Government.
No Risk, No Cost, Only Opportunity
Government also emphasized that this was not a “test case,” nor does it open the floodgates for mass deportations. In fact, Eswatini is not expecting additional deportees unless capacity allows, and each case would be reviewed individually with national interest as a priority.
“The country has more dangerous criminals than the deportees, and they have not escaped,” reads the responses tabled in Parliament, further dismissing concerns about public safety or regional instability.
Improving International Relations
Beyond safety and financial concerns, the deportation agreement is positioned as an opportunity to strengthen Eswatini’s global partnerships. The government highlighted that Eswatini continues to maintain relations not only with the United States, but also with the deportees’ countries ofRelation
Parliamentarians were reassured that the agreement was legally sound and approved with input from the Attorney General. The initiative, according to the Prime Minister’s Office, aligns with broader goals of advancing international cooperation and protecting the sovereignty of the Kingdom.
A Call for Unity in Leadership
During deliberations, some MPs urged Cabinet members to present a united front in Parliament when addressing sensitive matters. The Prime Minister was commended for directly addressing the nation on the issue, showing accountability and strength in leadership.
With three years still left in the current administration, parliamentarians expressed hope that ongoing cooperation and unity would lead to even more progress for the Kingdom.
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