Eswatini, a nation located between South Africa and Mozambique, has become the center of attention after accepting five migrants deported by the United States, including a Cuban citizen.
The African country, formerly known as Swaziland, changed its name in 2018 by decision of King Mswati III, who announced the return to the traditional name in the Swazi language. Swaziland was the name used during the British colonial period, which ended in 1968.
The king wields absolute power
Eswatini is one of the few absolute monarchies that still exist and the only one in Africa. This means that the king has absolute power over the government and does not serve as a ceremonial figure. Mswati III has been ruling since 1986, when he ascended to the throne at the age of 18, following the death of his father, Sobhuza II. The monarch can govern by decree.
Mswati III has faced criticism for his style of governance, accused of suppressing political dissent while maintaining a lavish lifestyle in one of the poorest countries in the world. He is reported to have 11 wives and has been noted for acquiring luxury vehicles. His wealth is estimated to be between 200 and 500 million dollars. In contrast, the World Bank indicates that more than half of the country's 1.2 million inhabitants live on less than 4 dollars a day.
There are no political parties
Political parties were banned in 1973 by King Sobhuza II. Although some still exist, they are not allowed to participate in elections or the political process. Parliamentary or Senate candidates must present themselves as independent candidates and are usually endorsed by traditional leaders loyal to the monarch.
In recent years, pro-democracy protests have intensified. The country's authorities have been accused of suppressing them through the use of security forces. Many dissenters are currently in exile.
Impact of HIV
Eswatini is also facing a severe health crisis. It has the highest adult HIV rate in the world, with an estimated prevalence of 26%, according to the United Nations agency for AIDS. Although significant progress has been made, the health response has largely depended on foreign aid, including assistance from the United States, which was cut by the Trump administration.
The United States deports five migrants to Eswatini
As part of an expansion of deportations driven by the Donald Trump administration, the United States sent five migrants —from Cuba, Yemen, Laos, Vietnam, and Jamaica— to Eswatini. The Cuban deported to Eswatini had a record for first-degree murder, aggravated assault on a police officer, grand theft of a vehicle, and ties to the Latin Kings gang.
The Cuban government, like others classified as "recalcitrant" by the State Department, refused to accept his repatriation due to his criminal record. This led the United States to choose to send him to a third country, in this case, Eswatini.
Official response from the Government of Eswatini
After the arrival of the deportees, the Government of Eswatini issued an official statement assuring that the five men are being housed in isolated penitentiary units and do not pose any threat to the population.
Interim spokesperson Thabile Mdluli stated that the deportees are in transit to their countries of origin and that the process is being carried out in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). He added that the agreement with the United States was the result of "months of robust negotiations" and that rigorous risk assessments were conducted prior to accepting their entry.
"The Kingdom of Eswatini and the United States of America have enjoyed fruitful bilateral relations for over five decades. Each agreement is executed with meticulous care, prioritizing the interests of both nations," concluded the statement.
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. Deportations to Eswatini
Why did the United States deport five migrants to Eswatini?
The United States deported five migrants to Eswatini due to their criminal records. The deportees, including one Cuban, were chosen based on their criminal backgrounds, which led to their home countries refusing to accept them back. Eswatini agreed to receive them as part of an agreement with the U.S., following extended negotiations.
What is the role of the government of Eswatini in the reception of deportees?
The government of Eswatini has declared that the deported individuals are housed in isolated penitentiary units and are in transit to their countries of origin. This is carried out in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), ensuring that the deported individuals do not pose a threat to the local population.
Why did the Cuban regime refuse to accept the deported Cuban?
The Cuban regime refused to accept the deported Cuban due to his serious criminal record. Cuba reviews each case through the Ministry of the Interior (MININT) and often rejects the repatriation of citizens with significant criminal backgrounds, which led the U.S. to choose to send him to a third country like Eswatini.
What criticisms has the United States' deportation policy towards third countries like Eswatini received?
The United States' deportation policy to third countries has been criticized by human rights groups. Concerns revolve around the rights and fate of the deported individuals, who are sent to countries with no cultural or legal ties to them. Additionally, the lack of official communication regarding these agreements and the risk of harboring individuals with complex criminal backgrounds are also questioned.
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