Communists Call for Urgent Change in Swaziland & International Solidarity

Communist Party of Swaziland Statement on 52 years of tinkundla dictatorship and absolute monarchy

12 April 2025

On the 52 years of memory of the infamous 1973 decree that banned political parties and established the absolute monarchy, the CPS calls for urgent action for change in Swaziland to end the Mswati dictatorship by all possible means.

The CPS uses this date to further agitate the strategic perspective for the transitional process to a People’s Democratic Republic of Swaziland.

The Communist Party of Swaziland calls for the immediate disbandment of Mswati's government.

The detrimental impact of the tinkhundla system, which is morally bankrupt and economically parasitic, poses an existential threat to the Swazi people, contributing to widespread misery, insecurity, murder, displacement and degradation within our society.

The CPS argues that allowing the Mswati regime to persist in any form is futile.

The consequences of the tinkhundla system are severe and far-reaching. The CPS emphasizes the following critical issues facing the country today:

The financial unsustainability of the current regime has resulted in increased poverty and economic despair. The working class and the poor bear the brunt of this crisis, with little hope for improvement under the existing government.

The escalation of diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and other ailments related to malnutrition and poor living conditions is alarming. The regime's neglect of healthcare has left many vulnerable and suffering.

The rise in violent deaths and suicides reflects the desperate situation many citizens find themselves in, exacerbated by the oppressive political environment.

The CPS asserts that the tinkhundla autocratic government is directly responsible for these crises.

The CPS calls for comprehensive political change to establish true democracy and ensure the rights of all citizens.

- The unbanning political parties and media is crucial for fostering a democratic environment. Citizens must have the freedom to organize and express their political views without fear of reprisal.

- The CPS demands the release of all political prisoners and the annulment of court cases against political leaders, activists and detainees.

- All exiled must be allowed to return unconditionally to their homeland. The CPS believes that their contributions are vital for the building of a democratic Swaziland.

The establishment of an interim government is a critical step towards democracy

The CPS calls for the immediate disbandment of the current government and the suspension of the monarch's powers. This will be replaced with a pervasive democracy and accountable governance structure.

An interim constitution must be drafted to guarantee the rights and freedoms of all citizens. This constitution should dismantle the privileges of the monarchy and the existing regime, laying the groundwork for a new democratic dispensation.

The interim government should be composed of representatives from various sectors of society, including political parties, trade unions, religious organizations, and civil society, women and to the youth. This inclusivity is vital for ensuring that all voices are heard in the transition to democracy.

The interim government must take emergency measures to secure all state assets, both domestically and internationally. This is essential to prevent the misappropriation of resources during the transition.

A comprehensive Emergency National Economic Plan must be created to address the immediate needs of the people. This plan should focus on alleviating poverty, improving healthcare, and providing essential services to the population.

The dissolution of the government will mean the immediate end of the king’s powers over executive, judicial, and security matters. This shift is crucial for establishing a government that is accountable to the people rather than to the monarchy.

The CPS recognizes the importance of international solidarity in the struggle for democracy

Countries and international institutions must pledge to stop their support for the tinkhundla regime. This includes diplomatic, economic, and military support, which has enabled the regime to perpetuate its rule.

The international community should contribute to the process of reorganization towards a new democratic life by supporting the new establishment.

The CPS urges all progressive forces, particularly the youth and students, to mobilize and support these demands. The youth represent a significant portion of the population and possess the energy and enthusiasm necessary to drive change.

The CPS encourages young people to engage in grassroots organizing, raise awareness about the issues at hand, and participate in decisive protests and advocacy efforts. Their voices are crucial in the push for a democratic interim government.

The CPS calls on Swazis in exile and international allies to stand in solidarity with the democracy movement. Collaboration across borders can amplify the call for democracy and human rights in Swaziland.

In conclusion, the CPS firmly believes that the steps outlined above are essential for the future of Swaziland. The CPS will use to help month of April to further discussions on this issues with an aim of mobilising people towards the struggle for democracy in Swaziland.

The call is clear and urgent:

The government must go now! Tinkhundla must be dismantled! Forward to a

democratic interim government!