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Makhanya, 46, has been living in exile in South Africa for two years due to the suppression of pro-democracy activists in Eswatini. According to PUDEMO, he was poisoned at his residence by a young man believed to have been sent by the Eswatini government. The opposition party condemned the attack, saying it is part of a broader strategy to silence dissenting voices in the country.
PUDEMO’s spokesperson stated that Makhanya had experienced severe symptoms after ingesting the poison but is now under medical care and showing signs of recovery. “We are relieved to see his health improving, but we remain concerned for his safety and the safety of all who advocate for democracy in Eswatini,” the spokesperson said.
The poisoning incident has heightened tensions as the country braces for the upcoming protests. PUDEMO has called for international attention and support to safeguard the lives of activists and push for democratic reforms in Eswatini.
Responding to the allegations, Eswatini government spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo denied any involvement in the poisoning, stating, “The government does not kill or poison suspects.” He dismissed the claims as baseless and an attempt to tarnish the government’s image ahead of the planned demonstrations.
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The political climate in Eswatini has been volatile, with opposition parties and civil society groups frequently accusing the government of King Mswati III of stifling democratic freedoms. Calls for multiparty elections have intensified as the country’s current political system allows the king to have substantial control over governance, including the appointment of the prime minister and cabinet ministers.
The planned protests in October are expected to be a significant show of public discontent. PUDEMO and other opposition groups are mobilizing supporters to demand electoral reforms that would allow for genuine multiparty democracy. Despite the government’s denial of involvement in the poisoning, the incident has galvanized opposition groups and could potentially increase international scrutiny of Eswatini’s political situat
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