Eswatini is Africa’s last absolute monarchy, ruled by King Mswati III, where over 70% of the population live in abject poverty. Resistance from the masses has been growing and peaked in June 2021. The monarchy responded by murdering over 100 unarmed protestors, and maimed and wounded over 300.
Since then, a series of operations has been conducted by the state to “restore peace and order”. Amongst these efforts by the state to silent dissent was the infamous arrest of two Members of Parliament who, in a judgement issued by Judge Mumcy (a relative to the king), were sentenced to 25 years and 18 years in prison, respectively. In another repressive move, the government dismissed a case appealing the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008, which contains a number of clauses that are undemocratic and enables political parties to be targeted. This act also made the Peoples United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) and the Swaziland Youth Congress (SWAYOCO) proscribed entities and undermined freedom of association.
More recently, the president to PUDEMO was poisoned and only narrowly survived after being admitted into the Intensive Care Unit.
Many more people from various political parties, especially youths, are in exile, leaving the country in fear of their lives, but still being hunted abroad. Others languish in prison, awaiting trial, some since 2021 – three years. In one of the most shocking incidents, Bheka Magagula, a former Correctional Service Officer was defected from the regime, was found dead in a ditch in Republic of South Africa on 11 October 2024. The Eswatini government was known to have been searching for Magagula for almost 2 years, and had even issued a E200,000 reward for his capture.
All this has happened while the country faces serious economic and health crises, with hospitals having no medication, transport, food, working equipment and a maor shortage of staff. The education sector is also suffering and schools have been complaining about lack of equipment, staff and food.
This hurts the youth more than anyone, and they have responding by continuing to organise protests and undertake advocacy work. Young people are also trying to increase the pressure on international partners and governments to impose sanctions on Mswati’s sham of a government.
They will continue to fight – the question is whether anyone outside the country is listening?
Mlamuli Gumedze is a youth activist and was formerly the President of the Swaziland National Union of Students.
“The question is whether anyone outside the country is listening.” The answer is a resounding yes. We are not only listening to the youth of Swaziland; we’re listening to the youth right across the African continent.
Dr. Nic Cheeseman notably emphasised the significance of the youth in Africa’s democratic aspirations during our recent podcast conversation. He claimed that democracy, which includes more than just free and fair elections, is frequently hailed as the best form of government. Democracy must be viewed as a complex idea that demands accountability and social equality. This short essay examines the importance of these components for a functioning democracy, especially in light of African political realities like the ones mentioned above.
At its core, democracy is traditionally defined by the principle of “one person, one vote,” which signifies political equality. However, this definition is limited and overlooks the essential aspects of social equality that must underpin democratic systems. Dr. Cheeseman emphasises that for democracy to thrive, it must not only ensure political rights but also address social and economic inequalities. The idea that “if one man is rich enough to buy another man, democracy is never going to function well” encapsulates the notion that economic disparities can undermine the democratic process. In societies where wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few, the political voice of the majority is often drowned out, leading to a skewed representation of interests and priorities.
Moreover, the protection of minority rights is a cornerstone of a robust democracy. Dr. Cheeseman argues against a purely majoritarian view of democracy, which risks sidelining minority groups in favour of the majority’s desires. Instead, he advocates for a democratic framework that includes checks and balances to safeguard the rights of all citizens, regardless of their social, economic, or cultural backgrounds. This perspective aligns with the classical understanding of democracy as not merely a mechanism for governance but as a system that promotes justice and equality.
The concept of neopatrimonialism, as discussed by Dr. Cheeseman, further complicates the narrative of democracy in Africa. Neopatrimonialism refers to a political system where personal loyalties and traditional ties overshadow institutional frameworks and meritocratic principles. In many African nations, this form of governance has led to a disconnect between the state and its citizens, resulting in weak institutions and rampant corruption. Dr. Cheeseman cautions against the oversimplification of African politics as uniformly neopatrimonial, highlighting that variations exist across the continent. For instance, Botswana stands out as a notable exception, demonstrating that effective governance is possible even within a context of resource wealth.
Recent events in Kenya exemplify the clash between traditional neopatrimonial structures and the rising demand for accountability and social equality. The youth-led protests in Kenya signify a burgeoning recognition among citizens of their rights and the expectations they have for their government. Young Kenyans, united across ethnic lines, have voiced their grievances regarding corruption, economic mismanagement, and a lack of inclusivity in political processes. This movement reflects a broader trend in which citizens are increasingly demanding a government that is responsive and accountable to their needs.
The potential for change in African democracies is palpable, particularly as the continent experiences significant demographic shifts. With a large youth population, increased urbanisation, and improvements in education, there is a growing possibility that citizens will begin to prioritise political accountability over ethnic affiliations. This shift could lead to a more engaged electorate that seeks leaders who deliver on their promises rather than those who simply represent their ethnic group.
In conclusion, the perception of Africa as a “hopeless continent” is a product of selective narratives that prioritise sensationalism over complexity. Scholars like Dr. Nic Cheeseman play a vital role in challenging these narratives by illuminating the successes and struggles of African politics. By advocating for a more nuanced understanding of the continent, we can begin to dismantle the stereotypes that have long persisted in global discourse.
Ultimately, embracing the diversity of African experiences not only enriches our understanding of the continent but also fosters a more equitable and respectful engagement with its peoples and their political realities. By recognising the multifaceted nature of Africa, we can move beyond simplistic narratives and appreciate the continent’s potential for growth, resilience, and transformation. In this context, it is clear that democracy requires not only the structures of governance but also a commitment to social equality and accountability to truly flourish.
To listen to the full episode of the podcast, please visit https://thekamugasachallenge.com/democracy-multipolar-world/