Communist Party of Swaziland: Perspectives on the Taiwan Question in Swaziland

A representative of King Mswati III and the Taiwanese ambassador at a celebration on October 8 -- image via X

Communist Party of Swaziland's (CPS) Perspectives on the Taiwan Question in Swaziland

Overview of the Taiwan Question

The Taiwan question is a significant geopolitical issue that has persisted since the end of the Chinese Civil War in 1949. The island of Taiwan operates under its own government, known as the Republic of China (ROC), while the mainland is governed by the People's Republic of China (PRC). Taiwan as a breakaway province that must be reunified with the mainland, while the separatist maintains a distinct political identity, with its own so called democratic institutions. The international community remains divided, with some countries recognizing the PRC and others maintaining unofficial relations with Taiwan.

Historical Context

1. Colonial and Post-Colonial Dynamics

Taiwan's history is marked by periods of colonial rule, first under the Dutch, then the Qing Dynasty, and later Japanese occupation. After World War II, Taiwan was placed under the control of the Nationalist government, which fled to the island following its defeat by the Communists led revolution which needed the civil war. This historical backdrop has shaped Taiwan's identity and its complex relationship with the mainland

2. Cold War Influences

During the Cold War, Taiwan became a focal point in the struggle between communist and capitalist ideologies. The United States supported the ‘ROC’ as a counterbalance to communist expansion in Asia, leading to a complicated diplomatic landscape. The PRC, in turn, sought to isolate Taiwan diplomatically, promoting the One China principle as a means to reclaim sovereignty over the island.

3. Recent Developments

In recent years, tensions have escalated as Taiwan has moved toward a more assertive identity, with increasing support for independence among some political factions. The PRC has responded with military posturing and diplomatic pressure, to resolve this complicated the situation.

Ideological Foundations of the CPS Position

1. Marxist-Leninist Principles

The CPS, as a Marxist-Leninist Party, adheres to principles that emphasize the importance of national sovereignty, anti-imperialism, and the unity of socialist states. The Party views the Taiwan issue through the lens of class struggle, asserting that any division among socialist movements weakens the global fight against capitalism.

2. Solidarity with the PRC

The CPS expresses strong solidarity with the PRC, viewing it as a leading force in the global socialist movement. Their support for the PRC’s stance on Taiwan aligns with their broader ideological commitment to socialism and the fight against imperialism.

3. Critique of Western Imperialism

The CPS frames its position on Taiwan within a broader critique of Western imperialism, arguing that support for Taiwan's independence is part of a strategy by imperialist powers to weaken socialist states. This perspective emphasizes the need for unity among socialist and anti Imperialist countries and forces to resist external pressures.

Specific Stances and Advocacy

1. Support for the One China Policy

The CPS actively endorse the One China policy, advocating for international recognition of the PRC's stand that Taiwan is part of China and there is one China whose only state administration is in Beijing. This stance reflects our commitment to national sovereignty and the belief that Taiwan's status should be resolved through peaceful means, rather than through foreign interference which practically disrupts the peace process..

2. Criticism of Separatist Movements

The CPS strongly criticizes any separatist movements in Taiwan, framing them as counter-revolutionary or influenced by foreign interests. We argue that such movements undermine the struggle for socialism and threaten the stability of the region.

3. Educational and Cultural Initiatives

The CPS will engage in educational initiatives to raise awareness about the historical context of the Taiwan issue and promote narratives that align with our principled ideological stance. This will include organising seminars, producing publications, and leveraging social media to disseminate their views.

4. Diplomatic Advocacy

The CPS call upon the governments to put pressure to ISOLATE the Mswati regime which is the HARBOUR BASE of Taiwan administration in Africa. These governments must continue to of strengthen its diplomatic ties with the PRC. We will advocate for policies that align with the PRC's interests in the region, potentially exposing the Swaziland foreign relations with other countries as hypocrite and scandalous.

5. Collaboration with Other Leftist Movements

The CPS seek alliances with other leftist parties and organizations globally and in the country that share a similar stance on the Taiwan question. This collaboration will involve joint statements, coordinated actions, and mutual support in international forums and campaigns for democracy in the country.

Broader Implications for Domestic and Foreign Policy

1. Expose tinkundla and Mswatis Disastrous Foreign Relations

The CPS's position on the Taiwan question significantly influence the struggle for democracy in Swaziland to assume a posture of One China Policy. This shift will weaken the strong ties that exist between the Mswati dictatorship and Taiwan , particularly given the growing influence of China in Africa whose positive outlook bypasses the people of Swaziland presently.

2. Regional Stability and Cooperation

By supporting the PRC's position on Taiwan, the CPS argues that it contributes to regional stability in Southern Africa and Africa. We advocate for closer ties with other African nations that share similar views on sovereignty and territorial integrity, fostering a united front against perceived imperialist encroachments via the political base which Taiwan is establishing in Swaziland.

3. Impact on Local Political Dynamics:

The CPS's advocacy for a unified stance on the Taiwan question resonates with other political entities in Swaziland where even ordinary people across ideological divide, feels the Taiwan/tinkundla relationships only serves the interests of the monarchy and political elites. Setting up very well our stand on Taiwan will potentially lead to broader discussions on foreign policy and national identity for the future People’s Republic of Swaziland. This could create a political environment where socialist principles gain more traction in domestic discourse against Imperialism.

4. Economic Considerations

The CPS highlight the economic implications of aligning with the PRC, emphasizing the potential for increased investment, trade, and development mutually benefiting collaboration with China. This economic dimension is our persuasive argument for supporting the PRC's over Taiwan.

5. Human development and Governance:

While advocating for solidarity with the PRC, the CPS promotes the achievements of the PRC government on improving the lives of ordinary people, ending poverty and improve Human development index with a stable and efficient governance and production ethics and cultural practices. The Party navigates these complexities while maintaining its ideological stance, potentially exposing criticisms of the PRC as part of an imperialist narrative which only entrenches the Mswati dictatorship and Taiwan colonial hegemony in our country.

Conclusion

The Communist Party of Swaziland's position on the Taiwan question is deeply rooted in its Marxist-Leninist ideology, emphasizing solidarity with the PRC and opposition to perceived imperialist interventions. By advocating for the One China policy and criticizing separatism, the CPS seeks to align the struggle for democracy in Swaziland to the popular anti Imperialist campaigns to influence foreign policy with its ideological commitments, which have significant implications for the future democratic Swaziland diplomatic relations and regional dynamics. The Party's stance reflects a broader commitment to the principles of national sovereignty, anti-colonialism, and the pursuit of socialism on a global scale. As the situation evolves, the CPS will continue to navigate the complexities of international relations while promoting its ideological clarity to explain with clarity these dynamics to the majority of our population.