A recent report by the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) highlights growing concerns over the independence and safety of lawyers in Eswatini, two years after the assassination of prominent human rights lawyer and political activist Thulani Maseko. The report underscores the chilling impact his murder has had on the legal community, particularly for those handling sensitive public interest and human rights cases.
Maseko, a leading figure in advocating for political reform and human rights in Eswatini, was shot and killed in January 2023 in his home near the capital, Mbabane. To date, no arrests have been made in connection with his death. The unsolved assassination has instilled fear among lawyers, many of whom are concerned about facing similar threats or even “extrajudicial killings” as a result of their work.
The ICJ’s investigation into the state of judicial independence in Eswatini found that many lawyers, particularly those involved in politically sensitive or human rights-related cases, now fear reprisals. This atmosphere of intimidation has severely impacted their ability to operate without fear of harm.
The report calls for greater protection for legal professionals in the country, highlighting the critical role lawyers play in ensuring access to justice, especially in politically charged environments. It also stresses the need for accountability in Maseko’s death, urging authorities to conduct a transparent investigation into the assassination.
As Eswatini continues to face scrutiny over its political and legal environment, the safety of its lawyers remains a key concern for human rights organizations worldwide.
Human-rights picture-by-Nick-Youngson-CC-BY-SA-3.0-Pix4free
