Mlungisi Makhanya, president of eSwatini’s leading opposition party Pudemo, was hospitalized due to a suspected poisoning attack in South Africa. The incident raises concerns ahead of upcoming protests for multi-party elections. Makhanya, who has been in exile, has faced threats to his life amid intensified political struggles in eSwatini.
The People’s United Democratic Movement (Pudemo), the leading opposition party in eSwatini, has reported that its president, Mlungisi Makhanya, narrowly escaped death following a suspected poisoning incident in Pretoria, South Africa. Mr. Makhanya, aged 46, was taken to the hospital shortly after the incident occurred in the early hours of September 24. He was accompanied to the medical facility by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS). In an official statement, Pudemo indicated that Mr. Makhanya is presently receiving comprehensive medical care and is being safeguarded by security personnel. The party is actively in communication with Mr. Makhanya’s family, providing essential support during this distressing period. They emphasized their commitment to keeping the public updated on developments regarding his health and urged supporters to keep Mr. Makhanya in their thoughts and prayers for a swift recovery. Residing in exile in South Africa since two years ago due to perceived threats to his life following violent confrontations with pro-democracy demonstrators in eSwatini, Mr. Makhanya’s predicament is particularly concerning. Pudemo has expressed alarm that this assassination attempt comes at a critical juncture, preceding anticipated protests demanding multi-party elections later in October. King Mswati III, who has maintained his reign since 1986, continues to face allegations of excessive opulence and oppression of dissent, claims that his administration has consistently refuted, thus underscoring the political tensions within the nation.
The situation in eSwatini remains politically volatile, particularly regarding the monarchy’s grip on power and the ongoing struggle for democratic reforms. King Mswati III’s extended rule has been marred by accusations of human rights violations as well as suppression of pro-democracy movements. The People’s United Democratic Movement (Pudemo) represents the voice of opposition, advocating for multi-party elections and reforms. Mlungisi Makhanya, as the leader of Pudemo, has become a prominent figure in these struggles, and his recent poisoning incident highlights the serious risks faced by political activists in the region. This incident is occurring against the backdrop of planned protests seeking to challenge the longstanding autocracy.
The near-fatal poisoning of Mlungisi Makhanya underscores the extreme dangers faced by opposition leaders in eSwatini amidst a backdrop of oppressive governance. The incident has occurred at a pivotal moment as advocates for democracy prepare for significant protests, highlighting the urgent need for political reform. The ongoing support from Pudemo and the public’s concern for Mr. Makhanya’s recovery indicates a resilient push for change in the increasingly tense political climate of eSwatini.
Original Source: www.iol.co.za
