Senator Coons applauds Senate passage of resolution condemning Eswatini’s human rights record

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) applauded the Senate's unanimous passage of his resolution that condemns the human rights record of the government of Eswatini and the killing of Eswatini human rights activist Thulani Maseko. This resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Tim Scott (R-S.C.).

Eswatini is Africa's last absolute monarchy, currently ruled by King Mswati III. Human rights abuses in the kingdom are common, including unlawful killings, arbitrary detention, and serious restrictions on freedom of expression. This resolution calls on the government of Eswatini to conduct a transparent and thorough investigation into the assassination of Maseko, a prominent human rights lawyer in Eswatini who was shot and killed by an unknown gunman on January 21, 2023. Eswatini authorities have failed to announce progress on an independent investigation into Maseko's killing, and more must be done to hold those responsible accountable and protect human rights in Eswatini.

"I applaud the passage of my bipartisan resolution condemning the human rights record of the government of Eswatini and the brutal murder of Thulani Maseko, who was a strong advocate for human rights," said Senator Coons. "Maseko fought tirelessly to improve human rights and civil liberties in the kingdom. However, more than a year after his death, no substantial progress on an independent investigation into his killing has been made. Even worse, his family members - including his widow, Tanele Maseko - continue to face harassment at the hands of the government. I condemn the kingdom's failure to undertake an independent investigation into Maseko's assassination, and I will continue to fight for justice for him and his family. I will also continue working with my colleagues in the Senate to seek wider improvements to the kingdom's human rights record."

"I am pleased the Senate passed my resolution with Senator Coons condemning Eswatini's human rights record and Thulani Maseko's murder," said Senator Risch. "The Eswatini government should heed the Senate's call to fully probe Maseko's murder, uphold human rights, and conduct meaningful and comprehensive dialogue on democratic reforms."

"Thulani Maseko was a dedicated advocate for human rights and civil liberties in Eswatini," said Senator Booker. "I am pleased that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle have come together to condemn this murder and urge accountability and justice for his family. We must continue our work to protect and defend human rights in Eswatini and beyond."

"'Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves' is a constant reminder in Scripture for the role of any public servant," said Senator Scott. "I'm grateful for the Senate unanimously condemning the worsening cycle of political violence and suppression of free speech in Eswatini. Transparency and accountability must be restored with respect to public officials complicit in extrajudicial killings, torture, and other egregious human rights violations."

Senator Coons is Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations (SFOPS), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Co-Chair of the Senate Human Rights Caucus.

The text of the resolution is available here.