Mlungisi Makhanya, the president of eSwatini’s major opposition party Pudemo, was hospitalized in South Africa after a suspected poisoning incident. He is currently receiving medical care and protection. This assassination attempt is believed to come ahead of protests for multi-party elections. Makhanya, living in exile due to prior threats to his life, represents the significant political strife within eSwatini.
The People’s United Democratic Movement (Pudemo), the principal opposition party of eSwatini, has reported that its president, Mlungisi Makhanya, has narrowly escaped a life-threatening incident in Pretoria, South Africa. On September 24, 2023, Makhanya was hospitalized following a suspected poisoning attack. He was promptly transported to a medical facility under the protection of members of the South African Police Service (SAPS). In a public statement, Pudemo confirmed that, “The president is currently receiving the best possible medical care and is under security protection.” The party also indicated that it remains in close communication with Makhanya’s family, offering significant support during this challenging period. They further expressed their dedication to keeping the public updated on Makhanya’s condition. Pudemo urged supporters and the general public to keep President Makhanya in their thoughts and prayers as he navigates this critical recovery process. Mlungisi Makhanya has resided in exile in South Africa for the past two years, having fled his homeland due to concerns for his safety following a violent crackdown on pro-democracy protesters. The party alleged that this assassination attempt is conspicuously timed as it precedes expected protests in October, which are aimed at advocating for multi-party elections in eSwatini. King Mswati III, who has held power since 1986, has faced ongoing criticism for his opulent lifestyle and alleged repression of dissenting voices, though his administration contests these allegations.
The situation in eSwatini, formerly known as Swaziland, has been increasingly fraught with political tensions, particularly surrounding calls for democratic reforms. The People’s United Democratic Movement (Pudemo) has been a vocal advocate for multi-party democracy in a nation where King Mswati III has ruled autocratically for decades. The monarchy’s tight grip on power and the suppression of political dissent have led to heightened political unrest, particularly among pro-democracy activists. The attempted poisoning of Mlungisi Makhanya, Pudemo’s leader, may reflect escalating risks faced by opposition figures as they campaign for democratic change in eSwatini.
In summary, Mlungisi Makhanya’s survival from a suspected poisoning incident underscores the perilous landscape for political opposition in eSwatini. As the nation gears up for significant protests demanding democratic reforms, the health and security of leaders like Makhanya are of paramount concern. Pudemo’s commitment to transparency and support for its president during this troubling time highlights the critical role of political advocacy amid ongoing threats to democracy in eSwatini.
Original Source: www.iol.co.za
