DA calls for end to Swazi 'dictatorship'
2011-04-12 12:37
The DA condemned today the detention of Swazi opposition members, saying South Africa needed to take the lead in ending the “dictatorship” of King Mswati III.
“The arrest and detention of four opposition youth leaders in the country is unacceptable, and the Democratic Alliance (DA) is dismayed by the ANC government’s ongoing reticence in addressing human rights abuses in our neighbouring state,” said DA MP Stevens Mokgalapa in a statement.
He said South Africa was Swaziland’s key trading partner and that more than 90 percent of Swazi imports were from South Africa, which buys about two-thirds of Swaziland’s exports.
Swaziland received at least 60% of its total state revenue from the Southern African Customs Union (Sacu), said Mokgalapa.
“President [Jacob] Zuma has a unique set of economic levers at his disposal, and should be making it clear to King Mswati at this point in time that democratic reform is his only available option.
“If he does not commit to such reforms, South Africa needs to threaten to hold back on Sacu revenue – an act that would directly target Mswati and his supporters, because it would cut off funds that are channelled directly to the regime,” said Mokgalapa.
Foreign news agencies reported today that 13 activists were arrested in Manzini in Swaziland where they were planning to protest against King Mswati III, who is Africa’s last absolute monarch.
- SAPA