The Eswatini government announced the arrival of ten deportees from the United States, which follows a controversial agreement between the two nations. The arrangement allows for Eswatini to accept up to 160 deportees in exchange for financial support from the US.
Details of the Deportation Agreement
The US has identified the deportees, including individuals from Jamaica, Cuba, Laos, Vietnam, and Yemen, as serious offenders. However, names and specific details have not been disclosed publicly. Recently, the Jamaican deportee has already returned home.
- Ten deportees arrived, with a total of 11 expected under the agreement.
- The agreement includes $5.1 million for Eswatini to enhance border and migration management.
- Activists challenge the agreement, claiming it lacks parliamentary consent and undermines democratic principles.
Legal and Social Implications
A court case regarding these deportations is scheduled to resume in Mbabane, the capital of Eswatini. Activist groups, including the Southern African Litigation Centre (SALC), argue that the government’s actions exemplify overreach.
Opponents of the agreement express concern that it affects the separation of powers, especially given Eswatini’s history of centralized authority under King Mswati III. Activists argue that this situation reflects a decline in democratic governance.
Concerns from Neighboring Countries
South Africa has raised alarms over potential cross-border movement of deportees, due to shared porous borders. To address safety concerns, Eswatini officials have stated that deportees will be held in a secure facility, separate from the public.
Government Response
Eswatini’s Prime Minister Russell Dlamini defended the agreement, asserting that it was reached at a high governmental level and is constitutionally valid. This stance aligns with the government’s commitment to comply with international agreements.
The ongoing situation reflects complex legal and humanitarian challenges as Eswatini navigates its agreements with the United States while maintaining internal stability and democratic integrity.
