The kingdom of Eswatini is facing global scrutiny after Tanele Maseko, the widow of assassinated human rights advocate Thulani Maseko, was reportedly targeted by the government. International concern has heightened following Tanele’s detention at a border while re-entering from South Africa. The incident signifies the challenges faced by those demanding justice for politically-motivated crimes. Thulani Maseko was a distinguished lawyer and critic of the Eswatini government. His killing on January 21, 2023, sparked international criticism and calls for accountability. This event underscores the dire situation for human rights and political opposition in Eswatini, putting pressure on the country’s authorities for their actions and raising alarms about the safety of activists within the nation.
The Detainment of Tanele Maseko
On March 27, a disturbing development unfolded as Tanele Maseko, accompanied by her children and a domestic helper, encountered a harrowing delay at the hands of immigration officials. Accused of being a “wanted person,” Tanele was subjected to an extensive interrogation period, with her personal belongings, including her passport and phone, forcefully taken from her possession. The precise motivation behind these accusations has yet to be formally disclosed, leaving room for speculation that her detainment was an act of intimidation linked to her vocal efforts to shed light on her husband’s untimely death.
Tanele’s experiences at the Ngwenya Border post epitomize the broader issues of governance and due process in Eswatini. Law enforcement’s decision to postpone further questioning after legal interventions did little to clarify the circumstances of her designation as “wanted.” Advocacy groups and legal representatives have since condemned the lack of transparency, suggesting a systematic attempt to deter Tanele from pursuing justice. This episode only exacerbated the growing concerns regarding the safety and freedoms of Thulani Maseko’s family and supporters.
Response from the International Community
Human rights groups have decried the treatment of Tanele Maseko amidst slow progress on probing Thulani Maseko’s killing. A year and two months later, there’s scarce progress in identifying the culprits, stoking the Maseko family’s resolve and public outcry for justice.
Eswatini’s officials are under fire for their lackluster response to calls for an independent investigation into the murder, undermining trust in the nation’s rule of law. The international community, alongside regional entities, is urging the government to halt punitive measures against the Masekos and pushing for transparency.
Despite facing substantial challenges, the Maseko family and human rights advocates press on, striving to uphold Thulani Maseko’s legacy and demand accountability. The persistent lack of action serves only to echo the global community’s calls for justice and emphasize the need for a fair probe, maintaining the fight for human rights within Eswatini.
