Maravi

‘SADC should intervene in Masuku’s arrest’

‘SADC should intervene in Masuku’s arrest’
Written by Margaret Habbuno
Sunday, June 14, 2009 4:03:25 PM

CIVIL society organisations in Swaziland have asked SADC to intervene in the arrest of human rights activist Mario Masuku and his lawyer Thulani Maseko.
In a joint statement with other civil and political organisations in Zimbabwe and South Africa, the Swaziland Solidarity Networks stated that it was important for the Swazi monarch to value human rights.

The statement has also been endorsed by the Congress of South African Trade Unions and the South African Communist Party, among others.

“We the undersigned South African civil society organizations, affirm that Swaziland is at a major strategic turning point in the course of its political history. In our vehement protest at the detention of the Peoples United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) president Mario Masuku, his lawyer Thulani Maseko and all political prisoners, we recognize the unique political movement and appeal for reflection leading to an urgent and different approach,” stated the organizations.

“We appeal to the South African government, progressive forces and all people for their support and for the region and international community to back this decisive call and for all to prepare for this paradigm shift. Relevant institutions of SADC and the AF, must step in, exercise leadership, provide political and technical assistance. A credible national dialogue agenda is desired and the opening up of all channels of communication.”

In the last two years, the Swazi Monarch has been at a war of words with the civil society over a return to a constitutional democracy.

Masuku is president of the People's United Democratic Movement - Insika Yenkhululeko YeMaswati - of Swaziland.

Since 1983 this organisation has been banned in Swaziland because political parties are illegal.

PUDEMO has called for multi-party democracy since its formation and believes the people shall govern.

In November 2008 Mario Masuku was again arrested and put in prison. Government has no case and continues to delay his trial.

Labels: MARIO MASUKU, SADC, SWAZILAND

posted by MrK @ 3:07 PM