Nomalungelo Simelane, popularly known as LaZwide, is making waves as an opposition candidate in the parliamentary elections of Eswatini, Africa’s last absolute monarchy. Defying the norm in the country, LaZwide raises her fist for democracy at campaign rallies, demanding change in a land governed by King Mswati III.
Eswatini, a small country wedged between South Africa and Mozambique, operates under a system where the King appoints the Prime Minister, the Cabinet, and the judges. Parliamentary acts are only enforceable if they receive royal assent. Political parties have been banned for half a century, and electoral campaigns are severely restricted.
With a limited two-week campaign period, the streets lack the usual plethora of posters, televised debates are absent, and there are barely any rallies. The 59 parliamentary seats up for grabs in Friday’s elections have candidates running without party labels, mostly aligned with the monarchy to maintain their loyalty.
LaZwide is defying the odds, speaking truth to power despite the risks. She emphasized this during her speech to a few hundred supporters in Siphofaneni, a small town 80 km from the capital, Mbabane. The 44-year-old former gospel singer, wearing heavy boots in the rain and a touch of lipstick on her face, entered politics indirectly through marriage. In 2022, she won a by-election and assumed her pro-democracy husband’s seat after he was persecuted and forced into exile by the regime.
Modestly acknowledging her lack of political experience, LaZwide stated, “I’m not a politician, but I know how to make myself heard around here.” However, she had to overcome deep-rooted fears of repression and arrest. Two opposition MPs elected in 2018 are currently incarcerated for their political activities.
LaZwide’s bravery and determination are resonating with young people who yearn for a better future. Bandile Khoza, 25, expressed his support, recognizing the lack of freedom and democracy in Eswatini. With almost half of his generation unemployed, he dreams of a country where opportunities are abundant and life is improved.
The situation in Eswatini remains challenging, as dissent is met with severe consequences. Freedom of expression is non-existent, and anyone daring to criticize the monarchy can face imprisonment. The dismal state of the economy compounds these issues, with nearly one-third of the population living below the poverty line while King Mswati III is often criticized for his extravagant lifestyle.
Thandiwe Mtsetfwa, a 28-year-old graduate struggling to find employment, shares her aspirations for a better future. She hopes for job opportunities and the growth of her town, echoing the sentiments of many young people in Eswatini.
The parliamentary elections present a glimmer of hope for change in Eswatini, but the path to true democracy remains uncertain. LaZwide’s candidacy, despite the limitations and risks, gives voice to those who crave a freer and fairer society. As the election day approaches, the aspirations and demands for change in Africa’s last absolute monarchy continue to grow stronger.
Image Credit: Aboodi Vesakaran on Unsplash
