International
Dirco calls on Eswatini security forces to ‘show restraint, protect lives’─── 10:14 Thu, 01 Jul 2021
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has urged a solution to the deadly protests sweeping Eswatini.
The violent protests in the landlocked country continued on Wednesday despite a curfew put in place by the government.
Thousands of emaSwati have taken to the streets to demand the fall of Africa’s last remaining absolute monarch.
According to the Swaziland Youth Congress (Swayoco), at least 21 people have been allegedly killed by eSwatini's security forces during pro-democracy protests.
Soldiers have been deployed on the streets of major cities and towns to crack down on protests and pro-democracy activists.
The Dirco’s spokesperson, Clayson Monyela, says the government is particularly concerned by reports of loss of life and destruction of properties.
“The right to peaceful protest is universally recognised. The South African government calls on the security forces to exercise total restraint and protect the lives and property of the people, in keeping with the country’s constitutional provisions and laws.
“In addition, South Africa urges all political actors and civil society to engage in meaningful dialogue in order to resolve the current political challenges facing the country.”
Jacaranda News