tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7634394271349153572024-03-05T20:41:46.026-08:00PUDEMOInsika Yenkhululeko YeMaswati -
The Peoples United Democratic Movement of Swaziland was founded in July 1983.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger79125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-32629839176900114592010-05-22T07:42:00.000-07:002010-05-22T07:54:39.907-07:00Swaziland, a state of lawlessness<span style="font-size:130%;">In the wake of Cde Sipho Jele’s burial this morning, where the state and its royal police failed to disrupt the funeral, the police exhibited their frustrations on the innocent and humble PUDEMO President Mario Masuku. They quickly hatched an evil plan to detain him after the funeral.<br /><br />A massive road block was hastily mounted at Luyengo, about 10 km from Jele’s home while three senior officers waited at home to monitor his movements. Upon reaching the road block, he was spotted, quickly detained and driven to Malkerns Police station. This is where he was interrogated in the presence of senior police officers namely a Mgabhi, Mbhamali, Jele, Mabuza, Dlamini and Mthembu who was leading the investigation.<br /><br />He was interrogated for close to two hours while members of PUDEMO and labour leadership waited outside. Comrade Masuku was then informed that he was being charged under the Suppression of Communism Act of 2008 for supporting terrorism by shouting “viva PUDEMO, viva SWAYOCO’ at the funeral.<br /><br />Subsequently, he was ordered to write a statement, but he refused. The investigating officers then proceeded to write a statement for him which according to Masuku was meaningless. They then consulted Head Quarters in Mbabane on his detention and charges. Fingerprints and all his particulars were then taken.<br /><br />Throughout this ordeal, visitors were not allowed until the arrival of Mr Mnisi, a lawyer. The officers disappeared for a few minutes and upon their return, Mr Masuku was informed that he was being released to the custody of his wife Thembi and son Mzwandile. However, he was warned that summons will be sent to him anytime on a date that will be decided by them.<br /><br />This act by the royal police is enough evidence that Swaziland has degenerated to a pitiful state of lawlessness emanating from poor governance by the ruling regime and this must be urgently addressed by the international community including SADC and the AU. We do not wish to go through the sad experiences of both Zimbabwe and Madagascar.<br /><br />As PUDEMO, we strongly condemn this act of lawlessness perpetrated by the desperate regime using its police force. It is unheard of for one to be detained, charged and then allowed to go without being admitted to bail (even free bail) and then told summons will follow “in due course.” This is blatant abuse of human rights. We wonder what more must happen in Swaziland before the international community openly and strongly address this crisis in their forums.<br /><br />This case alone clearly shows why the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008 was enacted. It was a tool meant to harass and suppress PUDEMO into submission and this is clearly failing! Why would the royal police pick on Mr Masuku and detain him for saying “viva PUDEMO, viva SWAYOCO”? The popularity of PUDEMO and its Youth League was so visible amongst the mourners who kept shouting the words throughout the night, but no the police decided to go for the PUDEMO President. This is a strategy of a confused state and must be strongly condemned. We call for the repeal of the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008 as it is an unjust law that is used not for state security, but for purposes of intimidating and suppressing dissenting voices in Swaziland.<br /><br />Head of Publicity<br />Zakhele Mabuza +268 7607 3453<br />Manzini</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-34216954681067120022010-05-22T04:37:00.000-07:002010-05-22T04:40:33.938-07:00COMRADE SIPHO JELE FINALLY LAID TO REST<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"><br /></span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"> </span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Following the disruption and stoppage of Cde Jele’s funeral ceremony last Sunday, PUDEMO wishes to report that the second attempt of his burial was successfully carried out in the early hours of this morning at his home area, Ncabaneni. This was done in the presence of the intimidating and hostile battalion of royal police.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >True to the promise of PUDEMO, the ceremony was conducted on the terms set by us in consultation with the family and the labour movement in Swaziland . The state had expected that the ceremony would be conducted in a manner very alien to the known and accepted manner understood by the struggling masses of our country. Not going to court to seek an interdict was a political decision that was reached after serious and careful consultation to avoid giving the state the right to dictate how we should conduct the burial ceremony.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >PUDEMO wishes to salute the following:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span> </p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >The Jele family that stood its ground in the face of a hostile intimidation by the royal police and the local traditional authority.</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >The labour and civic organizations that braved the state brutality and showed solidarity with both PUDEMO and Cde Jele in this fearful era under the Suppression of Terrorism Act. This sent a clear indication to the oppressive regime in Swaziland that the people are now prepared to challenge and defy all oppressive laws that are meant to entrench the hegemony of the royal regime in Swaziland .</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >The church, under the umbrella of the Council of Swaziland Churches for fearlessly standing by the oppressed masses in their hour of need with the understanding that a physically oppressed nation cannot be spiritually free.</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >The rural masses of Ncabaneni for their defiance of all the intimidation and threats to discourage them from attending Cde Jele’s funeral as he was branded a ‘political criminal.’</span></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Now the people have grown to understand that Cde Jele and PUDEMO are not terrorists, but committed and humble people of Swaziland that wish to see their people living under democratic conditions that will fully guarantee them all their rights.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >LONG LIVE THE SPIRIT OF COMRADE SIPHO JELE LONG LIVE!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;">Contacts</span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"> </span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Head of Publicity</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Zakhele Mabuza +268 7607 3453</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Manzini</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-9436850040431178772010-05-05T07:49:00.001-07:002010-05-05T07:49:58.873-07:00Killed for wearing his PUDEMO T-shirt<span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>PUDEMO Media Release, 5 May 2010<br /><br />Killed for wearing his PUDEMO T-shirt<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The royal security agents in Swaziland have done it again</span><br /><br /></strong></span><span style="display: block; text-align: center;font-size:130%;" ><strong></strong><em></em></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />We report with great grief to all our comrades both at home and internationally that Comrade Sipho Jele has died, as usual in the hands of the police. Cde Sipho was detained on Workers Day for wearing a PUDEMO t-shirt in Manzini. Subsequently, the police took him to his home in Ncabaneni looking for his membership card and returned with him to custody. On the following day, Tuesday morning the police officers returned to report to his grandmother that he has died by coomiting suicide while in custody. We know this is incorrect. A lot of people in Swaziland have died in the hands of the police and fictitious stories fabricated. And the police were ordering the old woman to bury the comrade on the same day, Tuesday.<br /><br />Next they will bribe the poor family to fabricate a story on Sipho's death which shall be in favour of the regime and its killer security agents. If they fail, they shall threaten the old lady with a lot of fearful things including being evicted from her home area.<br /><br />The Swaziland royal regime has always been giving the international community the wrong information that political dissenters are not imprisoned, harrassed and killed. And that Swaziland is a peaceful country. But here is a political activist getting killed for attending Workers Day and wearing a PUDEMO t-shirt. These are the same tactics that were used during apartheid South Africa to silence political activists. It is high time the international community, especially SADC genuinely take up the issue of Swaziland. How many innocent people must die before the regional leadership comes out openly to condemn the Swaziland regime and demand for democratization? Do we need to experience massive deaths like it is happening in other countries to get the international community to act?<br /><br />Cde Sipho is a former worker at Usuthu Pulp. He was currently among the 2006 awaiting treason trialists. He was also in the process of furthering himself academically. PUDEMO and its Youth League have lost a hard working and committed comrade in Sipho. May his soul rest in peace! He has not died in vain, but for the freedom and liberation of our oppressed masses under the arrogant tinkhundla royal regime.<br /><br />Contacts<br /><br />Head of Publicity<br /><br />+268 607 3453<br />Manzini</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong></strong></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-29060328970098600542009-09-19T09:39:00.000-07:002009-09-19T09:41:18.352-07:00PRAYER FOR MARIO MASUKU<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;">SUCCESSFUL PRAYER FOR MARIO MASUKU</span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"><br /></span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"> </span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >As the trial of PUDEMO President Mario Masuku draws closer, the organization organized a special prayer session that was held in Manzini today beginning at 2pm. It must be noted that this activity was successfully done.</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Present among those gathered in prayer were members of the Masuku family together with Mrs Thembi Masuku, wife to the President.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Speakers in the session included representatives of Swaziland National Union of Students, Swaziland Labour Council, PUDEMO Youth League and Masuku’s younger brother Julian. All the speakers spoke in one voice, emphasizing the need for justice to done in Swaziland , but most importantly the liberation of the people of Swaziland from the oppressive and corrupt royal regime.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Leading the prayer item on the agenda was Reverend Shabalala from the Lutheran Church in Manzini, the very church that provided the venue. In his sermon, the Reverend reminded all that it is God’s will and expectations that those in power must always provide the led with justice at all times; and when there is injustice, God will always fight on the side of the oppressed.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >It was indeed a successful two hours of prayer and words of wisdom in the quest for the liberation of the oppressed people of our country. We as PUDEMO know that many people in Swaziland believe in the cause we are fighting and the ideals that Comrade Mario stands for. Outside Swaziland we also know that people are doing a lot in solidarity with Mario and the suffering people of our country. Soon the illegal regime will give way and the power it stole from the people through a coup in 1973 will be restored.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Contact</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >PUDEMO Head of Publicity</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Zakhele Mabuza +268 607 3453</span> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-35350824403915569062009-09-14T13:11:00.000-07:002009-09-14T13:16:08.380-07:00STATEMENT ON THE MARIO MASUKU TRIAL<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;" align="center"><b style=""><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">PUDEMO STATEMENT ON THE MARIO MASUKU TRIAL 14 September 2009</span></span></b> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;"><span style=""> </span>The People's United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) wishes to alert both the Swazi public and the international community on the coming trial of its President Mario T Masuku.<br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Masuku was arrested in November 2008 less than 24 hours after the oppressive and undemocratic Swazi royal regime had ‘banned’ the organization describing it as terrorists. This is all because PUDEMO has over the years dared to challenge the regime to stop its dictatorial tendencies, human rights abuse, corruption, nepotism, harassment, lack of democracy, etc. For this, PUDEMO has been viewed by the regime as its greatest threat to its continued oppression of the poor masses of Swaziland.</span></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">On the 21 September, the trial shall commence at the High Court of Swaziland in Mbabane at 9am. The resilient members of PUDEMO, from all corners of the country, shall again descend on Mbabane in support of their President. They will be joined by the democracty seeking people of Swaziland under the banner of the Swaziland United Democratic Front. This is because Comrade Masuku’s detention has become a symbol of oppression for the people of Swaziland!</span></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">This will be a contest between <b style="">freedom and oppression; justice and injustice. </b>The defence team comprises fearless lawyers for human rights, who have over the years stood by and defended the oppressed people of Swaziland without fear of this brutal regime. There is Thulani Maseko (is himself out on bail on charges of sedition), Leo Gama, Mandla Mkhwanazi and Paul Shilubane. The regime has unashamedly run to South Africa, a democratic country, to seek legal assistance in its fight to sustain its injustices and oppression on the people of Swaziland. <b style="">Whoever shall take this offer must be condemned and discouraged, for the rewards are no different from blood money!</b></span></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Meanwhile a prayer service is being planned in Swaziland for the coming weekend in preparation fro the commencement of the trial. We are also encouraged by the planned protest action by COSATU for the release of Mario Masuku on 25 September. A lot of activities internationally are currently taking place where people are calling for the release of Comrade Mario and the introduction of multiparty democracy in Swaziland. The Swaziland Solidarity Network is one of such.</span></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Comrade Mario is fine and ready for the road ahead. The family also remains strong and fully behind him for they know that this is not only about them, but <b style="">the fight for the oppressed masses of Swaziland.</b></span></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;"><b style=""> However, as usual, the state will be unleashing its brutal security apparatus to intimidate, harass and even assault people who will be attending the trial. But we shall remain resolute in support of our President and the fight for democracy in Swaziland.</b></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;"><b style=""><br /></b></span></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Contacts</span></span></b> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">National Head of Publicity Zakhele Mabuza +268 607 3453</span></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Deputy President Sikhumbuzo Phakathi 0731427594</span></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Secretary General Sphasha Dlamini +268 608 9783</span></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-3929945624398651932009-09-07T04:07:00.000-07:002009-09-07T04:09:40.107-07:00The Planned COSATU Visit To Swaziland<span style="font-size:130%;">PUDEMO PRESS RELEASE<br />Sept 7, 2009<br /><br /></span><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;" align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;">The Planned COSATU Visit To Swaziland </span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;" align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"> </span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >As stated in our last statement, that because of the international campaigns meant to highlight the struggles of the poor and oppressed masses of our country, the international community is positively responding. As PUDEMO, we wish to welcome the decision by COSATU to send a strong delegation into Swaziland on 16 September. </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Amongst other things is to visit the incarcerated PUDEMO President Mario Masuku. This is a huge step by COSATU and is an indication that they not only preach, but practice international solidarity wherever there is injustice. It is the very same action they undertook in the case of Zimbabwe where the opposition was being subjected to repression of untold proportions for daring to call for change and social justice.</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >This visit will be a truly enriching experience for COSATU. A lot is happening behind the ‘ Swaziland peaceful iron curtain.’ This is the land where people with dissenting voices:</span> </p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Have their houses and families constantly raided for unclear reasons.</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Are victimized in different forms.</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Are kidnapped and tortured at will by the security agents of the state who later will deny any responsibility because they are protected by the regime they serve to remain in power.</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Are constantly subjected to threats and fear with cruel and inhuman pieces of legislations.</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Have their families instructed how they must conduct funerals.</span></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" > </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" >Surely the curtain is slowly lifting and the regime will be exposed for what it really is. We hope more of such will continue to happen for the international community has a huge role to play in assisting the people of Swaziland overcome the political crisis they are facing. In Zimbabwe and Madagascar , the international community intervened and now is Swaziland ’s turn, for the people urgently need democracy, peace and social justice! The regime cannot hide anymore with all the atrocities it is subjecting its people to.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-53203855793200207282009-09-05T04:10:00.000-07:002009-09-07T04:11:07.439-07:00PUDEMO Press Release - 5 September 2009<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;">PUDEMO Press Release - 5 September 2009</span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;">1. The Global Week Campaign on Swaziland</span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"> </span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;">The campaign has unfolded with a very high measure of success in highlighting the struggles of the poor and oppressed masses of our country led by The Swaziland United Democratic Front, labour organizations and international allies. We wish to salute our international friends for continuously extending their solidarity and realizing that Swaziland cannot remain and continue to be a threat to democracy in the SADC Region. We continue to maintain that Swaziland is in a huge political crisis and no amount of denial can resolve it. We believe the only way towards solving the crisis is to:</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 39pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New';"><span style="">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;">Release PUDEMO President Mario Masuku and all other political prisoners currently out on bail.</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 39pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New';"><span style="">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;">Allow the return of all political exiles unconditionally.</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 39pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New';"><span style="">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;">Unban all political parties and a return to constitutional multiparty democracy.</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 39pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New';"><span style="">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;">Repeal all unjust laws including Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008, the proposed Public Service Bill, etc.</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 39pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New';"><span style="">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;">Allow the people of Swaziland to write their own constitution.</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;"> </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;">As a result of the campaign, we expect more and more true international friends of the struggling people of Swaziland to come into the country in the near future to assess the situation and take the message forward as opposed to the those who come in the name of ‘tourism, cultural experiences and diplomatic strengthening of relations’ when our people are oppressed and dying. No amount of “public relations” by the state will cover up the existing crisis. </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;"> </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;">2. The abduction of Wandile Dludlu</span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"> </span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;">The President of PUDEMO Youth League (SWAYOCO) was yesterday kidnapped and brutalized by the state security agents. He was physically tortured and assaulted leaving needing urgent medical attention. What the state has done is not new. On a continuous basis members of PUDEMO has been raided and brutalized on the pretext that they had guns or knowledge to that effect. This is a hallmark of dictatorships and regimes that illegally ascended into power. They become so desperate that they use any available cruel strategy to silence dissenting voices and prolong their stay in power. We condemn this act by the state and its agencies. We therefore call upon the international community to apply more pressure on the status quo for the democratization of Swaziland that will come with the respect for human rights. <b style=""><span style=""> </span></b></span></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"> </span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;">3. The Human Rights Commission</span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"> </span></b></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;">This is an exercise not worth commenting about. It is of no significance and is not in the interest of the oppressed masses of Swaziland . You only have to look at its composition and the backgrounds of the commissioners to realize that this is another grand scheme of issuing awards to loyal supporters of the status quo. After all no public institution will ever function to truly and honstly advance the lives and welfare of the ordinary people under the existing status quo.</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"> </span></b></span> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-38613257397241308482009-07-05T03:23:00.000-07:002009-07-06T03:27:09.788-07:00PUDEMO Day 2009<span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >A SUCCESSFUL PUDEMO DAY</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >Sunday July 5, 2009</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /><br />Yesterday, 4 July members of PUDEMO successfully commemorated the Movement’s 26th anniversary in Manzini as it was planned.<br /><br /><br />The activity took place in the midst of heavy police presence that was drawn from all over the country just to ensure PUDEMO does not successfully carry out its activity. The police had started harassing members of the public from Friday evening forcing motorists into their cars and ordered to drive away from parking lots.<br /><br /><br />It was encouraging to see scores of PUDEMO members defiantly coming into Manzini inspite of the heavy presence of the security forces; and the reality of the hostile Suppression of Terrorism Act. This is the hallmark of PUDEMO, standing firm and resolute against intimidation, state terror and injustice.<br /><br /><br />The address by the Deputy President enabled the members to reflect on the past and the gains of the Movement. It was also able to dwell on the present challenges and how PUDEMO is to overcome them.<br /><br /><br /><br />PUDEMO LIVES and is certainly not dead as the regime wishes to think! PUDEMO is the people and the people are PUDEMO!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-13029929034657513882009-06-03T07:53:00.000-07:002009-06-03T07:56:07.962-07:00STATEMENT ON THE ARREST OF THE PEOPLE’S LAWYER<h4 id="toc0"><strong><span style="font-size:14;">PUDEMO STATEMENT<br /></span></strong></h4><h4 id="toc0"><strong><span style="font-size:14;">ON THE ARREST OF THE PEOPLE’S LAWYER </span></strong></h4> <h4 id="toc1"><strong><span style="font-size:14;"> </span>3 June 2009</strong></h4> <h4 id="toc2"> </h4> <h4 id="toc3">The People’s United Democratic Movement strongly condemns the arrest of the People’s Lawyer Thulani Maseko this morning by the state’s security agents acting on the instructions of the country’s authorities.</h4> <h4 id="toc4"> </h4> <h4 id="toc5">Comrade Maseko was ambushed at his home just before going to work. He was subsequently taken to the Manzini magistrate’s court where he was formally charged with sedition allegedly on an opinion he expressed during the Workers’ Day in Manzini. He was then remanded into custody pending his appearance at the High Court in Mbabane . Presently, he is kept at the Sidwashini Prison in Mbabane .</h4> <h4 id="toc6"> </h4> <h4 id="toc7">We are not surprised by this arrest. Information was already circulating two weeks ago that the necessary process was in motion by the state to have Cde Maseko detained. The alleged opinion he expressed is just a mere cover. It is a known fact that the state does not like Maseko because of his uncompromising stance against human rights abuse in Swaziland . Infact he has a very good record of fighting and winning against the state; and has never hesitated to take up a case against the state when it has political connotations. In short Cde Maseko is a fearless human rights lawyer who has always stood with oppressed people of Swaziland and forsakes the tempting riches that go with his profession.</h4> <h4 id="toc8"> </h4> <h4 id="toc9">By detaining Com Maseko, the state thinks it is settling scores with him and at the same time frustrate his clients. We are all aware that Maseko recently made a crucial presentation to the British government on the lack of democracy and the state’s abuse of human rights in Swaziland using the notorious Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008. We are also aware that Cde Maseko recently represented the Swaziland Ex-Miners Association against the state’s disregard of its own palace constructed constitution by failing provide free education, a case he won hands down and the regime is not at all impressed. Presently, he is representing the PUDEMO President Mario Masuku on charges of sedition (so coincidental)!</h4> <h4 id="toc10"> </h4> <h4 id="toc11">The state should instead be arresting and tackling all the people involved in corruption and have contributed in the collapse of the country’s economy. It must also be telling the people of Swaziland when they will finally enjoy constitutional multiparty democracy; when are our exiles returning home; when will it repeal the abusive Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008; and when are we going to see the people’s President and the people’s Lawyer walking free in the streets of Swaziland !</h4> <h4 id="toc12"> </h4> <h4 id="toc13">PUDEMO and the people of Swaziland shall always stand by Comrade Maseko in the fight for democracy in Swaziland .</h4><br /><h4 id="toc14"> </h4> <h4 id="toc15"><strong>Contacts</strong></h4> <h4 id="toc16"> </h4> <h4 id="toc17">Dep President – Sikhumbuzo Phakathi – =27 731427594 (South Africa)</h4> <h4 id="toc18">National Spokesperson – Zakhele Mabuza - +268 607 3453 (Swaziland)</h4>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-14544420677411651582009-06-03T07:51:00.000-07:002009-06-03T07:52:58.267-07:00Lawyer of PUDEMO President Arrested<span style="font-size: 130%;"><em><strong>PUDEMO media statement, 3 June 2009</strong></em></span><span style="font-size: 130%;"> </span><br /> <br /><span style="font-size: 130%;"><br /><br />The Swazi regime has gone mad beyond recovery!<br /><br />Advocate Thulani Maseko, lawyer of PUDEMO President was arrested yesterday on charges of TERRORISM!<br /><br />This is a clear indication that the Swazi regime wants to do away with all </span><span class="yshortcuts" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; cursor: pointer; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial; font-size: 130%;">human rights activists</span><span style="font-size: 130%;">.<br /><br />Thulani Maseko is a founding member of the Swaziland Association of Students, former president of the Student Representative Council (SRC) at the </span><span class="yshortcuts" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer; font-size: 130%;">University of Swaziland</span><span style="font-size: 130%;">, former </span><span class="yshortcuts" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; cursor: pointer; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial; font-size: 130%;">Secretary General</span><span style="font-size: 130%;"> of PUDEMO, founding member of Lawyers for Human Rights Swaziland, founding member and chairperson of the </span><span class="yshortcuts" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer; font-size: 130%;">National Constitutional Assembly</span><span style="font-size: 130%;">.<br /><br />He has represented many comrades in their legal battles against the regime including the successful case by the ex-miners in which the court ruled in favour of the people for free education.<br /><br />Advocate Maseko is a well respected lawyer around the world, having been recently invited by the </span><span class="yshortcuts" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; cursor: pointer; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial; font-size: 130%;">Foreign affairs Minister</span><span style="font-size: 130%;"> in the UK and the EU to state the case for Swaziland.<br /><br />It is not clear as yet where he is kept and what is happening to him.<br /><br />But we fear for his life.<br /><br /><br />PUDEMO </span><span class="yshortcuts" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; cursor: pointer; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial; font-size: 130%;">International Relations</span><span style="font-size: 130%;"><br />c/o Head of Publicity</span><br /><span class="yshortcuts" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer; font-size: 130%;">Manzini, Swaziland</span><span style="font-size: 130%;"><br /><br />cell numbers<br />268-607-3453 (Swaziland)<br />27-73-142-7594 (South Africa)<br />27-82-923-1401 (South Africa)</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-30674005685731364472009-05-21T06:23:00.000-07:002009-05-23T06:28:20.871-07:00RE-AFFIRMING PUDEMO'S MAIN PROGRAMME OF ACTION<p style="font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">STATEMENT RE-AFFIRMING PUDEMO'S MAIN PROGRAMME OF ACTION - issued 21 May 2009<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">This serves to re-assure the general membership of PUDEMO and our friends domestically and internationally that we are still alive, committed and vigorously working to achieve the strategic objective of liberating our people from the clutches of the oppressive Tinkhundla royal regime. The NEC of PUDEMO met on the 17 May 2009 to re-affirm the main Programme of Action for the year to encompass the following:</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style=""><span style="font-weight: bold;">a)</span><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" > </span></span><b style="">Regional Congresses </b>– as per our constitutional requirement, our regional structures are expected to hold their congresses this year. The dates for the congresses have been set as follows:</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b style=""><span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; cursor: pointer; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1243085052_0">Shiselweni</span> Region</b> – 21 June 2009</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b style=""><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1243085052_1">Manzini</span> Region</b> – 28 June 2009</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b style="">Lubombo Region</b> – 28 June 2009</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b style="">Hhohho Region</b> – 28 June 2009</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b style="">External Region</b> – 28 June 2009</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b style=""><span style="">b)<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" > </span></span></b><b style="">Strengthening the Swaziland United <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1243085052_2">Democratic Front</span></b> – we still maintain that the SUDF is a crucial vehicle in the fight for the transition from the oppressive Tinkhundla rule to a democratic dispensation. We have the responsibility and commitment to ensure that we continue to make our contribution towards advancing the objectives of the SUDF. As we go for the congress of the SUDF next month, we shall aim at nothing, but make it stronger and more effective.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><b style=""> </b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b style=""><span style="">c)<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" > </span></span></b><b style="">Release <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1243085052_3">Mario Masuku</span> Campaign </b>– as long as the President of PUDEMO remains in detention, the calls for his release will not cease. We have put in place programmes and strategies to ensure the call echoes day and night at home, in the palace and abroad until our President is set free unconditionally.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><b style=""> </b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b style=""><span style="">d)<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" > </span></span></b><b style="">PUDEMO Day </b>– 2009 marks the 26<sup>th</sup> year of our existence as an organization fighting for a democratic dispensation in Swaziland . The 4<sup>th</sup> July 2009 has been identified as the day we will both renew and re-affirm our commitment in the struggle to liberate our people from the royal regime and make Swaziland a giant of democracy.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""> </b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b style=""><span style="">e)<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" > </span></span></b><b style="">Intensifying international work </b>– raising the profile of our struggle internationally is very crucial at this stage to ensure unbearable pressure and isolation is applied on the oppressive royal regime by the international community. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""> </b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b style=""><span style="">f)<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" > </span></span></b><b style=""><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1243085052_4">Mass mobilization</span> </b>– this is an on-going task by the movement to conscientize the oppressed people of our country. Emphasis is to be made in rural Swaziland where royal hegemony and hostility is strongest towards democratization.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""> </b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b style=""><span style="">g)<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" > </span></span></b><b style=""><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1243085052_5">Leadership development</span> </b>– programmes have been put in place to build and develop more leaders at all levels within PUDEMO. This will ensure the organization’s work and programmes are carried out efficiently.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Contacts</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;">Dep President - Sikhumbuzo Phakathi - <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1243085052_6">0731427594</span> (external)<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;">Publicity - Zakhele Mabuza - +268 6073453 (internal)<br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-88141150061816687722009-05-13T13:55:00.000-07:002009-05-13T13:56:10.218-07:00STATEMENT ON THE ONGOING POLICE RAIDS ON PUDEMO MEMBERS IN SWAZILANDAs is the norm with the Swazi regime that uses repressive tactics to subdue the populace, it is presently visiting another wave of harassment on our members. First on Friday, the state’s security agents raided Wandile Dludlu, the President of PUDEMO Youth League in Mbabane and confiscated everything on the organization ranging from t-shirts to documents. On Saturday morning, Mandla Ndlangamandla in Malkerns was also raided taking with them t-shirts and documents. On Tuesday Sphasha Dlamini, the Secretary General of PUDEMO was summoned to the Police Headquarters in Mbabane to answer on why she made a statement on the day's Times of Swaziland . From reliable sources, we are told the raids are still to continue on our members as the security agents have been numerous search warrants to effect the raids at will. As a result our members are living one day at a time not knowing when the brutality will be visited on them.<br /><br /> <br /><br />We note that the state is under tremendous pressure to democratize as well as release the PUDEMO President Mario Masuku. The state felt highly embarrassed and intimidated when scores of workers defiantly and proudly came clad in PUDEMO t-shirts varying messages demanding democratic change. However, the biggest embarrassment was the loud message demanding the release of the PUDEMO President. This was a surprise to the state which had hoped by detaining him, the people had forgotten about their leader! Hence now the security agents are moving all over the country in a mission to remove all t-shirts with message demanding the release of the peoples’s Leader! In the process they are trampling on people’s rights. This is mission impossible! The resources used to raid all the homesteads in Swaziland should best be used to investigate the numerous cases of corruption and theft of public funds, a better priority.<br /><br /> <br /><br />PUDEMO and the people of Swaziland strongly condemn this barbaric and dictatorial act by the Swazi regime. A regime that is in charge of the SADC Troika on politics and democratic governance. Indeed Swaziland is special in the region with its archaic and semi-fuedal tendencies of governance which the international community must not allow to continue. However, this regime consists of very slow learners and seriuosly challenged people who cannot learn from experiences of other dictatorships that they will not win, but the people shall always TRIUMPH even if they can use the deadliest of force!<br /><br /> <br /><br />Contacts<br /><br />Dep. President - Sikhumbuzo Phakathi - 0731427594 - (external)<br /><br />Publicity - Zakhele Mabuza - +286 6073453 - (internal)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-43333498947869300262009-05-04T07:01:00.000-07:002009-05-04T07:07:14.675-07:00STATEMENT ON WORKERS' DAY<h1 id="message_view_subject">PUDEMO PRESS RELEASE</h1><b>STATEMENT ON WORKERS' DAY – 4 May 2009<br /><br /></b> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b> </b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The 1st of May 2009 will be remembered as a very significant turning point in the history of the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1241445723_0">trade union movement</span> is Swaziland . This is because of the fact that we witnessed the workers from the three worker groupings in the country namely the SFL, SFTU and SNAT; and the Swaziland United <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1241445723_1">Democratic Front</span> celebrating the day together for the second consecutive year running. This clearly gives hope that PUDEMO’s call for “one industry one federation” shall soon be realized. The message from all the speakers on the day was very clear and it touched on the following demands:</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br /></p> <ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="square"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">A living wage, non-taxation of benefits and full recognition of workers rights.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Constitutional multi-party democracy.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The release of <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1241445723_2">PUDEMO President Mario Masuku</span>.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The return of all exiles.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The scrapping of the Suppression of <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1241445723_3">Terrorism Act</span> of 2008.</li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The Deputy President of PUDEMO Sikhumbuzo Phakathi and the President of PUDEMO <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1241445723_4">Youth League</span> Wandile Dludlu made powerful and eloquent addresses to the thousands of workers who clearly embraced PUDEMO as their political organization despite the so called ‘ban’ by the royal regime in Swaziland . Of course, their addresses and presence were never reported in the local media. Instead the media reported mostly on the entertainment that was provided on the day. This clearly shows that our media greatly lacks independence. We are reliably informed that these days the state is really tightening the screws on the media and has been infuriated by the recent reports on the E/R 25m spent on cars during the King’s birthday. The forced ‘apologies’ we see in the local newspapers is not a coincidence, but is a result of the threats and pressure visited on the media by the state over this particular issue. And so the media personnel is protecting their jobs. Reporting on PUDEMO has come with horrible threats from the state directed to the personnel in the media sector.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Although the event was successful, we note that the organizers had to go through difficult challenges deliberately imposed by the state. Firstly we note that workers were denied the use of both the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1241445723_5">Trade Fair Ground</span> and the Mavuso Sports Ground that was opened by the King during his recent birthday. The <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1241445723_6">Ministry of Foreign Affairs</span> and Trade in collaboration with the notorious Manzini City Council/Municipality deliberately denied the workers the right to use these facilities that were constructed by through their hard earned taxes. Secondly, the state through its security agents attempted to interfere with the programme by instructing the organizers to remove from the day’s programme. However, the labour leadership remained resolute and refused to comply with the order. The ‘high ranking’ police officers left with their tails between their legs with embarrassment infront of the multitudes of workers!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">As PUDEMO, we congratulate the unity and resoluteness displayed by the workers of Swaziland in their quest for both political and economic liberation from the clutches of the corrupt and repressive royal regime. <b>There is strength in unity</b>. AMANDLA!!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b>Contacts</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b> </b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Dep. President – Sikhumbuzo Phakathi – <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1241445723_7">27-731427594</span> (external)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Publicity – Zakhele Mabuza – +268 6073453 (internal)</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-23280837942675830122009-03-21T07:05:00.000-07:002009-03-21T13:38:39.873-07:00SPECIAL MESSAGE ON THE PEOPLES PRESIDENTSPECIAL MESSAGE ON THE PEOPLES PRESIDENT<br />21 March 2009<br /><br />To all members and comrades of PUDEMO, all our friends and allies, we bring to you some very important thoughts from the President Mario Masuku.<br /><br />It is important that we report to you that the President is doing fine in the prison walls of the dictatorial and repressive regime of the kingdom of Swaziland.<br /><br />Comrades, the President assures you that he remains resolute and committed to the fight for a democratic Swaziland. The fighting spirit remains unbroken despite the harsh conditions and hostility paralleled with his medical condition.<br /><br />The President takes great pleasure and comfort to the great work and contribution that PUDEMO is doing at the moment. He fully recognizes the contribution of solidarity by our friends on the international front. The President takes pride and draws confidence from the consistent work that is done on a daily basis.<br /><br />He further recognizes the work of the Swaziland United Democratic Front that has remained unshaken in its objective of uniting our people for the liberation of the people of Swaziland.<br /><br />Special thoughts go to the NNLC and its President, the labour movement, students and the church for their contribution towards the march for the democratization of Swaziland. The regime has become desperate and must be pressurized constantly.<br /><br />The key towards the success of the struggle is UNITY and CONSISTENCY!<br /><br />NOMA KUKUBI SIYAYA KU MULTI-PARTY<br />(INSPITE OF ALL THE CHALLENGES WE SHALL GET TO MULTI-PARTY DEMOCRACY)!<br /><br />AMANDLA! AMANDLA!<br /><br />Contacts<br />Dep. President – Sikhumbuzo Phakathi – 27-73-142-7594 (external)<br />Publicity Officer – Zakhele Mabuza – 26-607-3453 (internal)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-27533711787032144132009-03-20T13:31:00.000-07:002009-03-21T13:47:21.206-07:00Statement on the Amnesty International Initiative to Apply Pressure on SwazilandStatement on the Amnesty International Initiative to Apply Pressure on Swaziland<br /><br />The Peoples United Democratic Movement welcomes and appreciates the initiative by Amnesty International to apply serious pressure on Swaziland to scrap off the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008; and cause the country’s leadership to democratize. We note that this has been a result of the tireless work of struggle put up by the democratic forces in the country; and the invaluable contribution of our friends and allies beyond the borders of Swaziland.<br /><br />We call upon all democratic forces in the country, particularly the Swaziland United Democratic Front, the church and many others, to continue raising the heat against the regime; and surely our international friends will always be ready to compliment the efforts.<br /><br />It is time the Swazi royal regime is firmly put on the spot. It can no longer hide and fool the world by claiming that the people of this country are enjoying peace, human rights and democracy when the contrary is true. Currently we have a scenario of atrocities that include the detention of PUDEMO President Mario Masuku; the abduction and torture of our comrades; the threat by the Prime Minister to fire all those workers in the public sector who are viewed to be anti status quo; the list is endless.<br /><br />We further challenge all other international organizations including the SADC, AU Commonwealth, EU and many others to take the cue from Amnesty International. They no longer have a reason to disregard the atrocities that are committed constantly by the Swazi royal regime. They have a duty and responsibility to assist the people of this country to rid themselves of this dictatorship.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">FORWARD WITH PRESSURE, FORWARD!!</span><br /><br /><br />Contacts<br /><br />Dep. President – Sikhumbuzo Phakathi – 27-73-1427594 (external)<br />Publicity Officer – Zakhele Mabuza – 268- 607 3453 (internal)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-57875623147632947282009-03-20T07:16:00.000-07:002009-03-21T13:46:05.589-07:00Statement on the Victory by the Swaziland National Ex-Mineworkers AssociationStatement on the Victory by the Swaziland National Ex-Mineworkers Association on Free Education in Swaziland<br /><br />We have always maintained over the years that the Swazi royal regime lacks vision and its action are not people-centered.<br /><br />We salute the great work done by the Swaziland National Ex-Mine Workers Association to expose the regime, most recently by influencing the High Court of Swaziland to rule in their favour and order the state to offer free primary education in the country. The regime has been refusing to oblige in this regard, in total defiance of what is provided in its own constitution. Their refusal was anchored in the argument that the regime does not have the resources, an argument that was reiterated by the King when he opened parliament last month. A great lie indeed!! We believe there is a lot of money in Swaziland, but the priorities of distribution are not people- centered. Not when the regime is ruthlessly and arrogantly splashing money to:<br /><br /><br />*Build palaces at the cost of over R 100 m.<br />*Pay the military (R 148m); the police (R 128m).<br />*Buy new cars for Cabinet Ministers at the cost of R20m.<br />*Buy two cars for an embassy at R 6m.<br />*Use R 43m to equip the security forces to fight and suppress the calls for multi-party democracy in the country.<br />[US$1=Rand 10]<br /><br />The list is endless - all this at the expense of developing the country’s human resource.<br /><br />The civil society is fully justified to challenge this. We implore it to continue challenging the regime on many other atrocious issues that it commits against the masses of this country. We also applaude the judiciary for standing firm, not be intimidated by the regime and correctly rule against it. However, we are waiting to see how the regime will react as it is known to defy court rulings with impunity.<br /><br /><br />Contacts<br /><br />Dep. President – Sikhumbuzo Phakathi 27-73-142-7594 (external)<br />Publicity Officer – Zakhele Mabuza – 268-607-3453 (internal)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-71434725111142075382009-03-11T13:33:00.000-07:002009-03-12T13:44:11.307-07:00More Plans for Repression in Swaziland<span style="font-weight: bold;">More Plans for Repression in Swaziland</span><br /><br />On Monday, the Prime Minister informed Parliament that his government was preparing legislation targeted at public workers who are viewed to be political and critical of the oppressive regime. He boldly declared that his government already has identified targets and the Intelligence Branch will be used to hunt down and identify more targets. All the identified public workers will be forced to resign/denounce their membership in political organization. These are members of political organizations that are anti-status quo in general, PUDEMO in particular is the intended target.<br /><br />As PUDEMO we have come to the following conclusion with regard to the government’s new repressive strategy:<br /><br />a)In the near future, there will be politically enforced retrenchments within the public sector especially on those who are critical of the state’s dictatorship.<br /><br />b)The offensive will not only end in the public sector, but will be extended to the private sector, especially because the king and government hold shares in many of the leading companies and parastatals.<br /><br />c)Comrades will now be rendered unemployable in the country. Job opportunities will now be reserved as a reward for the passive and those who are pro-status quo. Employers will be forced to either toe the line or lose business.<br /><br />d)The king’s mandate, that was issued last year when appointing the current Prime Minister, is firmly in motion. The strangulation of critics of the Swazi dictatorial regime is being implemented and varying strategies are constantly being crafted.<br /><br />All this happens in a country that has its head, King Mswati III, currently entrusted by the SADC to chair the organization’s TROIKA on Peace, Politics and Governance. We ask ourselves if the country really deserves this honour when it has political crises, is an enemy of peace and good governance? Surely this act must be strongly condemned and not allowed to be part of a democratic, progressive and peaceful environment that characterizes the Southern Africa region.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Contacts:<span style="font-weight:bold;"></span></span><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />Dep. President – Sikhumbuzo Phakathi 27-731427594<br />Sec. General – Sphasha Dlamini 268-6089783<br />Sec. for International Affairs – Sonke Dlamini 27-829231401<br />Information and Publicity – Zakhele Mabuza 268-6073453<br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-4484404567506236902009-03-08T14:41:00.000-07:002009-03-12T14:49:44.416-07:00NAKED STATE PROPAGANDA TO PROMOTE OFFENSIVE AGAINST CALLS FOR DEMOCRATIC TRANSFORMATION<span style="font-weight:bold;">NAKED STATE PROPAGANDA TO PROMOTE OFFENSIVE AGAINST CALLS FOR DEMOCRATIC TRANSFORMATION </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">8 March 2009</span><br /><br />As PUDEMO, we wish to address ourselves to two important issues as propagated by the royal regime in Swaziland with regard to what the state called ‘salary increase’, for workers in the public sector, and the so called proposed ‘national dialogue.’ As the vanguard organization we wish to clearly state that we disagree and condemn this state propaganda aimed at patronizing the populace.<br /><br />1. <span style="font-style:italic;">Salary increase</span><br />The so much publicized declaration that the Finance Minister has requested Parliament to approve of a supplementary budget, so as to finance a planned increase in the salaries of public workers, is not honest. Workers in the public sector must be informed that the money requested is not meant to benefit them. On the contrary, it is meant to finance the king’s project of ‘strangling’ the democracy seeking elements in the country by all means necessary. We recognize that the police are going to benefit, but at a limited scale. The real destination of the bulk of the money is the military. The leadership of this country no longer has complete trust in the police force, but has full trust on the army in the campaign to suppress calls for democracy in the country. It is not a co-incidence that a new Ministry of Defence is soon to be created with the view to work towards sustaining the dictatorial regime. The regime is using the name of the public workers in its plan to finance the ever growing repression in the country!<br /><br />2. <span style="font-style:italic;">National Dialogue</span><br />Responding to the growing pressure domestically and internationally for the Swazi regime to democratize, the government has resorted to its old tricks again in an effort to ease the pressure! Addressing editors this week, the Prime Minister declared that the regime is preparing for a national dialogue to resolve the political challenges in the country. However, he emphasized that the agenda will be pre-determined by the state and cannot be changed by anyone; and only labour formations will be invited to attend! We view this as cheap propaganda by the state aimed at deceiving the local populace as well as the international community that something is being done to address the peoples concerns on the political crises that the country finds itself in. PUDEMO condemns and does not recognize this initiative, but view it as poisonous propaganda which must not be accepted and believed by our people and the international community. In 1992, PUDEMO clearly put forward the correct and all inclusive approach to be adopted towards democratizing the politics of the country. As it is, we see no commitment from the King and his government towards embarking on a process towards genuine democratic transition in Swaziland; and the representation is not broad based. The regime seeks to undermine the existence of political parties including PUDEMO and its influence in the struggle for democratic change. We still maintain that there can be no democratic process without the involvement of political parties; and a broad based representation in the process.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Contacts</span><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />Deputy President - Sikhumbuzo Phakathi 0731427594<br />Sec General - Spasha Dlamini 009268 6089783<br />Sec for International Affairs - Sonke Dlamini 0829231401<br />Sec for Publicity and Information - Zakhele Mabuza 009268 6073453 </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-56269742071550788182009-03-05T14:54:00.000-08:002009-03-12T15:02:09.091-07:00STATEMENT ON SWAZILAND’S BUDGET FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF REVOLUTIONARY DEMOCRATIC FORCES<span style="font-weight:bold;">STATEMENT ON SWAZILAND’S BUDGET FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF REVOLUTIONARY DEMOCRATIC FORCES </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">5 March 2009</span><br /><br />We wish to remind our friends and allies, locally and abroad, that the king’s mandate of suppressing voices calling for democracy in Swaziland is still alive. The king’s cabinet is fully determined to carryout the mandate. The Finance Minister made it known that this financial year the regime has made a special budget for this mandate amounting to R43 million ($4.7m).<br /><br />We further note the arrogance of the state security agents as represented by the Police Commissioner, in his press statement this week, when he declared that they will suppress any protest marches in demand for democracy in the country with ‘military precision.’ This follows the successful rally last weekend by our Youth League. With all this money and threats we have reason enough to believe and suspect that the state is even preparing itself to create killer squads as part fulfillment of the king’s mandate to hunt down perceived enemies of the regime, both domestically and outside the borders of the country. This is happening at a time when the king is Head of the SADC Troika, an organ that is tasked with ensuring democratic governance and peace in member states. We condemn this misplaced priority and wastage of national resources when:<br />Unemployment has exceeded 40% recently.<br />HIV/AIDS also stands at over 40%.<br />Health care is very poor and inaccessible to the majority and poverty stricken population that make up 70% of the overall populace.<br />There is lack of clean water and accessible roads in rural communities.<br />The government cannot afford to provide free education.<br /><br />All that is in the mind of the Swazi regime is to spend available resources to kill, maim, harass and suppress the democratic forces in the country.<br /><br />However, PUDEMO remains resolute and focused on the national demands which are:<br /><br />The introduction of constitutional multiparty democracy that shall guarantee the freedom of association, assembly and expression.<br />An end to the 36 year old state of emergency.<br />A people driven national constitution.<br />The scrapping of the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008. <br />The release of President Mario Masuku.<br />The return of all political exiles.<br /><br /><br />Surely the SADC region cannot afford to continue harboring this dirty sport in its midst!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Contacts:</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Deputy President – Sikhumbuzo Phakathi 27-731427594<br />Sec. General – Sphasha Dlamini 268 6089783<br />Publicity Sec. – Zakhele Mabuza 268 6073453</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-657632833616982222009-03-01T14:09:00.000-08:002009-03-21T14:12:48.364-07:00STATEMENT ON THE PUDEMO YOUTH LEAGUE (SWAYOCO) RALLY MARCH 1, 2009<h4 id="toc1"><strong>PUDEMO Statement:</strong></h4><h4 id="toc1"><strong></strong><em><strong>STATEMENT ON THE PUDEMO YOUTH LEAGUE (SWAYOCO) RALLY</strong></em></h4> <h4 id="toc2"><em><strong>ISSUED ON 1 MARCH 2009</strong></em></h4><h4 id="toc3"> </h4> <h4 id="toc4">The Youth League of PUDEMO successfully organized and held a rally yesterday (28 February) in the township of Msunduza in Mbabane. This was against the backdrop of arrogant threats by the Swazi regime that the rally must not be held because SWAYOCO is banned and so cannot freely operate in the country.</h4><br /><br /><h4 id="toc5"> </h4> <h4 id="toc6">It must be noted that the objectives of the rally centred on the very issue of lack of democracy in the way the country is governed. Thus the Youth League demanded:</h4><br /><br /><h4 id="toc7"> </h4> <ul><li><h4 id="toc8">The release of the PUDEMO President, Mario Masuku detained under the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008 that is meant to target and deal with all those who are perceived as anti-status quo. The regime still refuses him visitation rights in complete and arrogant defiance of a ruling by the High Court of Swaziland that the rights must be restored.</h4> </li></ul><br /><ul><li><h4 id="toc9">The introduction of a constitutional multiparty democratic order in Swaziland that will guarantee freedom of speech, assembly and association.</h4> </li></ul><br /><ul><li><h4 id="toc10">The provision of basic, very necessary services to the people including free education, quality health care, meaningful social grants to the elderly, clean water, accessible roads, etc.</h4> </li></ul><br /><h4 id="toc11">We further note that the regime continued to display its arrogance by deploying scores of armed security personnel in the capital city just to ensure that the rally does not succeed as the Police Commissioner had promised. <strong>However, against all these threats the rally went on and was successful, marking an important victory in the struggle for democracy in Swaziland.</strong></h4><br /><br /> <h4 id="toc12"> </h4> <h4 id="toc13">That the state decided to unleash a huge amount of force in an attempt to stop the rally is further proof that the country is a dictatorship that cannot be accepted in the modern world. In its effort to stop the youth from expressing their demands, the whole area was turned into a war zone by the state police. In the process, young children, vendors and the whole community was not sparred from the police violence. <strong>Several comrades including the SWAYOCO President Wandile Dludlu are currently detained under the Suppression of Terrorism Act and the state security agents still continue to hunt down more with the intention of detaining them. However, this is victory to the struggle for democracy and a huge blow to the dictatorial regime in Swaziland.</strong></h4> <h4 id="toc14"> </h4><br /><strong>Contacts:</strong> <h4 id="toc16">Information and Publicity – Zakhele Mabuza 268-607-3453</h4> <h4 id="toc17">Secretary General – Sphasha Dlamini 268-608-9783</h4> <h4 id="toc18">Deputy President – Sikhumbuzo Phakathi 27-73-142-7594</h4> <h4 id="toc19">Sec. for International Affairs (SWAYOCO) – Siyabonga Hlongwane 27-79467577</h4>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-46320877174038445802009-02-04T08:22:00.000-08:002009-02-04T09:29:14.647-08:00Durban Declaration: Extraordinary Congress of PUDEMO held 16-18 January 2009<span style="font-weight:bold;">Durban Declaration</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Extraordinary Congress of PUDEMO held 16-18 January 2009</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">“The People Must Be and Will Be Free!"</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Introduction</span><br /><br />Concluding the second leg of our Extra-Ordinary Congress in Durban, we the delegates representing PUDEMO structures throughout Swaziland and the mass of our people in workplaces, rural areas, social and cultural centers, educational institutions, and every other space where our people are found, hereby fully accept the responsibility placed on our shoulders by the historic expectations and tasks arising from the political situation in our country.<br /><br />We are gathered as freedom fighters and revolutionary militants responding to the emergencies imposed by the growing conditions of desperation, hopelessness, political suppression, hunger, extreme poverty and unemployment in our country. Our people want change now. They want a better life with improved material conditions. They no longer need promises and empathy but decisive action. They want a clear direction about the next step that we should, as an oppressed people, take towards eradicating the source of our collective misery.<br /><br />We affirm the centrality of PUDEMO as a critical force for liberation in Swaziland, with the full responsibility to build, co-ordinate and support our people’s efforts towards their own liberation. It is with the fullest appreciation of this situation that we take seriously the tasks assigned to us by the situation in our country and our declared commitment to change the situation in the interest of the poor and oppressed masses of our country.<br /><br />We also extend our warmest and most profound salutation to our President, Comrade Mario Masuku, the gallant son of the Swazi people, who is currently in a tinkhundla jail (Matsapha Central Prison) for his courage, inspiration and untiring determination to lead our people to their desired freedom. He is held on false and baseless charges of terrorism. Tinkhundla seeks to demonize him; destroy his spirit of determination and resilience; isolate him from the masses of our people who adore him and on whose behalf he has made all the sacrifices. The tinkhundla regime will fail dismally in their immoral efforts!<br /><br />We recognize that in trying to destroy him by constantly jailing him, the tinkhundla regime has only served to reaffirm the fullest confidence of the people, and the international community, in Cde Mario Masuku; the Movement he leads and the nobility of the cause he stands for.<br /><br />We also note that the levels of harassment, arrest, intimidation and victimization of PUDEMO members and activists have dramatically escalated in the recent past because the regime has engaged in a full-blown policy to suffocate dissenting political views in line with mandate given by the head of state to his current cabinet. <br /><br />We take this opportunity to salute our fallen heroes, in particular, our Deputy President Dr Gabriel Mkhumane who was assassinated in cold blood and our devoted cadre, MJ Dlamini, who fell in the line of duty, as well as that outstanding internationalist, Jack Govender who died in the cause of other people. We also demand the immediate and unconditional release of our dear comrade Amos Mbedzi, who is languishing in tinkhundla jails and who has suffered severe torture for supporting the struggle of the Swazi people.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">PUDEMO: The tested weapon of our people’s desire to build a new and democratic Swaziland</span><br /><br />PUDEMO is synonymous with liberation. It has become a buzzword for change and an icon of the people’s aspirations in Swaziland. It is very clear to everyone that there is no genuine solution to the crisis in Swaziland outside engagement with PUDEMO and the mass democratic movement as a whole. Surely, for any lasting solution to emerge in Swaziland the people’s organizations must be involved and the people’s demands must be the determinant factor. This means the people must own and control the entire process of engagement.<br /><br />PUDEMO emerged in the context of an extremely hostile political environment, characterized by demonizing propaganda, state brutality and even a corrupt moral fibre and economic setup that enriches only a few parasites at the expense of the poor majority of our people. PUDEMO had to contest tinkhundla hegemony and create space for a new democratic and progressive culture where respect for human rights and dignity are central. Through bitter struggles, PUDEMO has contributed in transforming the political landscape towards the realization of the goals set out in the People’s Manifesto.<br /><br />We have come a long way, with difficulties, challenges, advances and setbacks. Certain tendencies in the very recent past point to the need for intensified induction of members, political education and cadreship development as part of an established culture in the movement. There is also a need for strengthening of a culture of discipline and high moral standards in our society through the exemplary conduct of PUDEMO cadres in struggle.<br /><br />PUDEMO represents the most advanced, highly disciplined and unwaveringly dedicated members of society and this must be upheld as a yardstick for the renewal of our noble traditions and principles. PUDEMO members do all, everything, for the people and nothing against them!<br /><br />This Extra-Ordinary Congress calls upon all cadres of PUDEMO, other Swazi patriots and democracy-loving people all over the world to heed one call: “a day more of tinkhundla suffering means more deaths from curable diseases, more hunger, more unemployment, more arrests and more royal extravagance and corruption."<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Charting a New Path: Those who do not fight are voluntarily choosing to perish!</span><br /><br />The Extra-Ordinary Congress conducted a mid-term review of our political programme since the last National Congress in 2006; also provided an opportunity to reflect on the state of PUDEMO and the urgent need to reposition our movement in order to decisively respond to the current political environment in our country. It also sought to put PUDEMO at the center of the people struggle to be free by acting to inspire confidence towards renewed momentum.<br /><br />A five-point focus plan was adopted towards this end:<br /><br />*We reaffirm our determination that the people will and must be free. In this instance, we noted that while major progress has been made in several areas and fronts of our struggle, a lot still remains to be done. Therefore, Congress calls upon the NEC to immediately consolidate the Road Map Operational Plan as adopted at Ermelo in 2007 to take forward the 2006 Congress directives even more decisively by convening a Special NGC session for that purpose. The plan should have clear targets, time frames and implementation strategy. It should take us to the next Congress, through mass action and rolling activism. <br /> <br />*In the wake of tinkhundla royal intensified terror, with the enactment of the Suppression of Terrorism Act as the epitome of that, which has resulted in the arrest of our President Cde Mario Masuku on false charges of terrorism, we once again, reaffirm our salutations to this gallant and heroic son of our people and freedom fighter. We pledge our unconditional support to him for his outstanding courage, bravery, visionary inspiration and leadership by example. He has vehemently refused to be cowed into submission by tinkhundla persecution. <br /><br />In relation to the arrest of the People’s President, we hereby resolve:<br /> <br />1: To prioritize as a matter of urgency a well-coordinated and clearly articulated campaign for the unconditional release of our President Cde Mario Masuku. The NEC soonest possible must assemble a task team for this purpose.<br /><br />2: To intensify the campaign against the draconian Suppression of Terrorism Act and all undemocratic laws in order to stimulate further the momentum towards multi-party democracy and freedom in Swaziland.<br /><br />3: To carefully and cohesively integrate all four of our struggles into an effective, efficient and mutually reinforcing and well-coordinated strategy, with all pillars equally and fully at work in a manner that ensures they fully complement each other. Towards that end, we reaffirm the existence of fully active structures both above and below surface which must be strengthened and capacitated to meet the challenges of the new era much more effectively and in a sustainable manner.<br /><br />*We recognize SWAYOCO as an autonomous body within PUDEMO, which requires that we ensure at all times and in the best interests of our struggle, we provide all the necessary support and prudent guidance to our youth movement with honesty and firmness but without compromising its autonomy and space to critically engage issues. Therefore, in our pursuit of the highest standards of democratic organisation, constitutional supremacy and organizational discipline built on our historic traditions, policies and revolutionary imperatives, we hereby welcome and adopt the report presented to Congress on the events at the recent SWAYOCO Extra ordinary Congress and the steps taken to resolve them, which culminated in the NGC decision to reinstate the democratically elected NEC of SWAYOCO. We further call upon the NEC to develop a clear and concrete action plan to assist SWAYOCO deepen its organizational capacity and strength in the face of the growing challenges; urgency of unity and organizational cohesion, so that the main focus remain the real enemy of our people, the tinkhundla savage system.<br /> <br />*The need for a bold, decisive and urgent effort to strengthen the Swazi solidarity movement all over the world to reposition the global momentum and profile of the Swazi struggle as well as upgrade its scale given the latest developments in the country. This requires a profoundly improved capacity for PUDEMO to coordinate all these efforts and activities. PUDEMO must always make decisive interventions to protect and advance the good image of the Swazi people’s struggle and that of the movement as a critical force at the helm of that very noble cause.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Conclusion</span><br /><br />“if yesterday belonged to tinkhundla oppression, surely, tomorrow belongs to the people. This means, today…..we must begin our journey…..to a new democratic Swaziland based on the aspirations of the people.” Road Map Programme of PUDEMO (2006).<br /><br />PUDEMO must continue to prove in the battlefield that it is the true leader of the people and that it is at the center of a political solution to our country’s deepening crisis. Never again shall this giant of the people’s struggle be ignored. The challenge remains for all PUDEMO cadres to increase the momentum through high moral standards, humility and honest leadership in struggle. <br /><br />We also wish to convey fraternal greetings to all people struggling for democracy and justice across the globe. We continue to call for peace, justice and democracy for all and support all efforts towards that end. It is in our interest to live in a peaceful world, but there can be no peace without justice. Therefore, we are all required to struggle for justice.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-80881248630506719222009-01-23T06:55:00.000-08:002009-02-04T08:47:09.298-08:00Royal terrorists protect their interests at the expense of peoples' livesViva the People’s struggle Viva!!<br /><br />Royal Terrorist Against the People of Swaziland & their Struggle.<br /><br />Victory to the People's Struggle. Phansi nge Royal Terror Phansi!<br /><br />The struggle will triumph; the scale will tilt, through labour and pain we shall Overcome.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Royal terrorists protect their interests at the expense of peoples' lives</span><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Introduction</span></span><br /><br />What will be left for the people with their hope of freedom when the peoples' hope, PUDEMO, could be allowed to be destroyed by the royal criminals? This moment is a test to the commitment and determination of the people in their desire for freedom and social prosperity. Mswati’s terror campaign deserves the utmost response from all democracy loving people of our country and the world.<br /><br />Mswati continues to insult the integrity of the people of our land, and the world, to say laws of aggression are equivalent to a peaceful transition to democracy. We had doubted his reasoning ability yet accepted it to some degree but now he has taken it too far and to a point that endangers our lives and the future of our country; its people, environment and entire habitation. His madness has reached an intolerable point. To allow him authority and power over our land will be our contribution to the destruction of our country to which new generations will condemn us even at our demise.<br /><br />Mswati has declared our country a "terrorist" country. He has passed "terror" laws and assumes the front line position in the implementation of these "terror" acts. He mobilizes his armed forces to advance his "terror" interests. He goes beyond all that and undermines the peoples' intelligence by calling upon the nation to accept and adapt to his "terror" interests. He has terrorized our communities.<br /><br />He has made our society celebrate all his dirty acts with bleeding hearts. With all this he is still not satisfied, he needs more and now he wants all of us to lie down so that he can walk over us as carpet. Enough is enough! Let's all call it over, stand firm in our struggle for freedom and the liberation of our country before we lose it all. We will use all means at our disposal to defend our dignity. No rule of terror can stop us from finishing this last and important lap our struggle. Let’s make Mswati pay for the price of our freedom.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />State of emergency- Reign of terror!</span></span><br /><br />The regime intensifies its rule of terror by reinforcing the 1973 decree which is constantly being weakened by the peoples' struggle. Pillars of the people’s freedom have grown all over the country, students, workers, women, disabled, unemployed, rural, professional and many more have worked extremely hard under difficult conditions to build their hope, PUDEMO, to lead them to the liberation victory -a victory for the majority of the oppressed people of our land. Mswati wants to destroy these efforts over his night dream. It is only those weakened, like the opportunists in his parliament, who can allow the efforts of the people to be watered down. But they constitute a weak and vulnerable minority that will perish without history and they will be judged for their action. History never forgets.<br /><br />Who in our land can accept royal criminals to terrorize the wealth of our country, abuse and loot our resources, abuse women and young children, evict people from the land of their birth, promote slave labour, or legalize fraud and corruption because she or he is afraid of being labeled a terrorist by Mswati! This means anyone who expresses her or his conscious is a terrorist and must be arrested and or killed. This is what Mswati has concluded and his parliament has approved. We must prove all of them failures including his right-hand men whom he has organized for these criminal acts.<br /><br />Mswati has a hope that he can maintain his criminal life by obstructing people with violence. We promise him that he is a failure both in his thinking and in his dreams. Violence is not his monopoly - even a tamed dog can not allow its owner to monopolize violence. If animals with a lower mental capacity than humans can reason and act successfully against violence upon themselves, how can we fail to unleash an even more violent strength than his. We are in a better position for violent action against him than he has against us.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Power to the people</span></span><br /><br />To all the people of our land who love peace and democracy, to whom this terror is directed: we must stand up in unity against these evil policies and acts of royal greed. The aim of this "terror" programmed by Mswati aims at nothing more than to raise the empire of the royal state against the people. It’s the destructive creation of a new lifestyle of our society; if not defeated, it will subjugate people to fear and expose not only our wealth but also our lives to danger and to a terrible point of demise.<br /><br />Mswati’s terror infrastructure must be destroyed even to the point of its sustenance. New personal has been mobilized quite greased with world class vehicles, technology and weapons Mswati amasses from his allies in the world market of dirt and cruelty. The industries in the country that choose to pay workers low wages and give Mswati the rest, in order to grease his terror infrastructure, must not be spared but be targets of sabotage. We must unite to investigate the operations of this infrastructure and the economy in order to make informed decisions to guide our action. This moment defines the trying times of the history of our struggle which we must survive at all costs.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Action and only Action for our survival</span></span><br /><br />*People must always be ready to mill on the streets to protest about this evils, arrogance, stubbornness and failures of the royal government.<br /><br />*Boycott and destroy all Mswati and his friend’s businesses and institutions.<br /><br />*Destroy all forms of government’s symbols of oppression.<br /><br />*Destroy all the installations that keep the oppressive government alive and all that keep the rule of terror - including its personnel - as a matter of survival. The state of emergence must be resisted by all means necessary.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Mswati must be defeated in his own game for the victory of our struggle and triumph of peace and democracy in our land. AMANDLA!<br /><br />FORWARD TO THE DEFIANCE CAMPAIGN</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-18508241734289151562008-12-31T06:36:00.000-08:002009-01-27T06:50:16.356-08:00PUDEMO End of Year Statement 2008<span style="font-weight:bold;">The People’s United Democratic Movement’s (PUDEMO) End of Year Statement<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br /><br />PUDEMO wishes to extend revolutionary and the warmest greetings to the fellow people of Swaziland and the peace and democracy loving citizens of the world. As we enter the year 2009, we are saying let us endure the pain and suffering together and travel this last mile to a new and democratic Swaziland . We call upon all of our structures within and outside the country to stand up to the task ahead and fulfil the revolutionary strategic objective of PUDEMO.<br /><br />As we make a cross-over to the New Year, we are ware that tinkhundla has continued to force its misrule, characterised by oppression and exploitation, to the people of our country. We are aware of the fact that tens of thousands of half-naked and desperate children are on the streets and have deliberately been rejected by tinkhundla regime. The people’s movement is also aware of the reality that there are no drugs in hospitals owing to the dilapidating health care system that has been produced by this regime – our people are dying! We are as well cognizant of the incontrovertible fact that there are hundreds of thousands of poverty-stricken citizens who are without such basics as food and clean water, particularly in the remote area. We are further aware of the continuous exploitation of workers and the treating of Swazis as subjects and not citizens in their own land. Also, we do not forget that a majority of Swazis do not own land and that many are still victims of the regime’s senseless land evictions. The only message we can pass to our suffering people is that the Tinkhundla Empire is crumbling and that before you know it, the system will have been destroyed and replaced with a people driven system.<br /> <br />The year 2008 has not been smooth for our mass-based democratic movement. What with the brutal and barbaric assassination of our deputy president Dr. Gabriel Thandokuhle Mkhumane who was shot dead at KaNyamazane in the republic of South Africa where he was living as an exile. As PUDEMO, we still maintain that the senseless killing of this gallant servant of the Swazi people was political and that the truth shall be revealed in future.<br /><br />There are many cadres who have died in our movement and whose blood shall water the tree of liberation. We pledge ourselves to lift up the spear and continue the noble fight. A majority of our comrades have continuously been threatened and terrorised by state police while some have been forced into exile. Be that as it may, all these have strengthened our glorious movement and have given it more power to soldier on. In fact, today we are stronger than yesterday.<br /><br />Sadly, we had entered the year 2008 with many police brutality instances and we say one day the people of Swaziland shall be defended. The police declared war as they assaulted UNISWA students who were demanding their right to quality education. Textile workers were also assaulted by state police as they were engaged in a legal strike action. In both the students and the textile workers’ struggles, the police used live bullets to shoot peaceful citizens of the land! We repeat that one day the people shall be defended and we do not intent to threaten anyone when we say that.<br /><br />The police also attacked members of the Swaziland United Democratic Front (SUDF), including its leaders, during a border blockade activity that was meant at raising the international awareness on the Swazi struggle for democracy. A group of peaceful PUDEMO members, including its leaders, were severely beaten and detained by tinkhundla police during a PUDEMO day rally in Manzini in July. Swayoco and PUDEMO members, including the people’s president, were subjected to the same treatment during a march that was organised by our youth league recently. The march had been allowed by the city council of Mbabane and the police but was stopped by the police on the actual day. It was intended to demand from the prime minister the resumption of the treason trial with which many of our members were charged and are out on bail. The continuous assault on political activists by police confirms what PUDEMO has been saying over the years; that the security forces are for the ruling elite and not the ordinary people of Swaziland and that they are used to harass the advocates of democracy in our country. However, more than the hatred of the pain to which we are subjected to on daily basis is our hatred of the conditions to which our people are subjected to throughout this country. We want to liberate all our people and we shall achieve this by all means necessary.<br /> <br />PUDEMO is not taken by surprise on the sudden banning of the people’s vanguard for the second time. Also, we are equally not surprised by the new suppression of terrorism Act and the incarceration of the people’s president Cde Mario Masuku. Such things are bound to happen in a country that is a dictatorship. We take comfort from history since such have happened to almost all liberation movements the world over. On the incarceration of our leader, we want to warn the regime by overemphasizing what we have just said; that we shall do all that is in our power to defend our<br />leaders, organization and the people of our country against everything that threatens the Swaziland Democratic Revolution (SDR). Only time will tell.<br /> <br />The regime also defied warning from progressives and the international community and went on to host the luxurious 40/40 double celebrations and thereby squandering millions of the tax payers’ money. Again here, this confirmed what PUDEMO has been saying over the years; that we are waging a struggle against an autocratic regime that has got a high appetite for leisure. The ordinary Swazi never benefited anything from those so called celebrations.<br /> <br />Of fundamental note is that the regime continues to ignore international conventions on democratic, free and fair elections as it held its circus called national elections even in the year 2008. Swaziland is a signatory to a plethora of international conventions on democratic elections. These are, inter alia, International Convention on Political and Civil Rights, the Mauritius Declaration, the Cotonou Agreement and the Harare Declaration of 1991, where Common Wealth countries agreed that totalitarianism was giving way to democracy and freedom. We call upon respectful signatories to the above stated conventions to put pressure on tinkhundla to democratize as we enter 2009.The Common Wealth expert team encapsulated all when they openly stated their disregard of the credibility of the 2008 Swaziland National Elections. This was their position even in the year 2003 as they reported, “We do not regard the credibility of these national elections as an issue. No elections can be credible when they are for a parliament that does not have power and when political parties remain banned.”<br /><br />PUDEMO maintains its long standing position that the zillions of problems engulfing Swaziland shall only be solved when a genuine dialogue has been called and a legitimate government is in place. We therefore demand a Constitutional Multiparty Democracy Now.<br /> <br />Essentially, the political and civic organizations of our beloved nation are united and this was evidenced by their coming together into the Swaziland United Democratic Front (SUDF). The people’s vanguard party hails the labour movement for celebrating 2008’s May Day together for the first time after so many years. As we do that, we reiterate our old principle of ‘One industry one Union , one country one federation’. This barbaric and backward system of Tinkhundla shall only be dismantled by a more united progressive force. The 2008 September 3-4 Mass Stay away was a clear indication that our unity can overcome the brutal power of this cruel dictatorship. We need to redouble our effort in 2009 as we march forward to a democratic Swaziland . PUDEMO urges all the forces under the banner of the united front to seize this opportunity since to relax our effort now will be a great mistake which generations to come will fail to forgive. Let us consolidate and advance.<br /> <br />On the international front, our struggle has intensified and our international allies have practically offered solidarity with the Swazi struggle as led by our glorious movement. We are particularly indebted to our South African allies in the tripartite alliance. They are to us what sunlight is to plants and we say only history shall reward them. We urge the international community to intensify its campaign against the Tinkhundla inhuman regime in the year 2009. We have got no hesitation in saying that the people of Swaziland have got no future under the current political set up.<br /> <br />The People’s United Democratic Movement has one demand as we enter then year 2009: <span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Talks about talks</span><span style="font-weight:bold;"></span></span> that will culminate into a genuine dialogue exercise involving all national stakeholders to discuss a way forward on the politics of our country.<br /> <br />It is our genuine view as PUDEMO that only such an exercise can lead to a people’s constitution and democratic government. The only historic route that can be taken by the ruling class this year is dialogue and not war.<br /><br />We have seen how the latter has failed in other African countries as it only results in bloodshed and unnecessary loss of lives. Our most treasured nation can not afford to take this dangerous route hence the need for dialogue as soon as possible. This is the very position that we took as early as 1992 in our document entitled, “THE PEOPLE’S WAY FORWARD DOCUMENT; TOWARDS A CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY THROUGH A NEGOTIATED SETTLEMENT.” We want to emphasize that we see genuine dialogue as the only possible remedy for our ailing nation.<br /> <br />OUTSIDE SWAZILAND<br />We are in solidarity with the suffering people of Zimbabwe and we call upon the SADC and AU to take a decisive action and protect the people of that land from the quagmire they are currently in. Our movement further appeals to the international bodies, in particular the UN to intervene and save the people of Palestine . Nothing can justify the raping of young innocent children and women as well as the mass killing of peaceful civilians.<br /> <br /> <br />BY CDE SPHASHA DLAMINIUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-89907015996536091022008-11-24T08:08:00.000-08:002009-01-27T08:09:30.007-08:00Strangling the King's opponents: Swaziland's "war on terrorism"<span style="font-weight:bold;">Statement from PUDEMO Regional Office<br />(Australia, Asia and the South East Pacific Region)<br />Date: November 24, 2008</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Strangling the King's opponents: Swaziland's "war on terrorism"</span></span><br /><br />When King Mswati III addressed the 63rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly in 2008, the emphasis of his speech was on the threat of terrorism. His speech was a carbon copy of what is now an outdated political discourse that dominated global politics in the turn of the 21st century. Out of touch with the shift in global politics, he sounded hollow when he called upon the world to unite and fight terrorism. World unity was achieved in 2001 but discourses about the threat of terrorism have receded from the centre stage of global politics. The recent 63rd Session of the UN General Assembly and the presidential election in the United States of America are examples of this shift in global politics. Whilst world leaders focused their attention on the global financial crisis and climate change, King Mswati III looked like a yesterday man. Nobody paid attention to him and he returned home a disillusioned, embarrassed and a frustrated man.<br /><br />Rejected as a yesterday man and a hopeless actor in the global political theatre, King Mswati III returned to home ground to vent his anger and frustration on Swazi citizens. Shortly after the United Nations General Assembly, he summoned the nation to his royal residence for what local and international media widely described as a historical event in which the ruling monarch declared war on Swazi and South African citizens. He accused Swazis and South Africans of engaging in acts of terrorism against Swaziland. The rage in his tone and use of sadistic words such as abakhanywe (strangle them) generated a deep sense of fear and anxiety in many people. It caused significant concern that a new wave of political repression will soon follow.<br /><br />From the speech, it was clear that strangling the King's political opponents was to become the mainstay of government policy. For the King, there is no one more capable of turning this desire into practical action than his most trusted henchman, Sibusiso Dlamini, a member of the King's advisory body. In disregard of his own laws enshrined in the Constitution of the Kingdom of Swaziland Act, 2005, King Mswati III appointed Dlamini the new Prime Minister in charge of government business and the police force. The Constitution states that the Prime Minister must be appointed from members of the House of Assembly. Sibusiso Dlamini was not a member of the House at the time of his appointment. His appointment was, therefore, unconstitutional. Dlamini's immediate responsibility was that of forming a war cabinet to strangle what the King described "enemies of peace".<br /><br />There were no doubts in many people's minds that members of the pro-democracy movement in Swaziland and the South Africa-based Swaziland Solidarity Network (SSN) are the obvious targets of this rage and war mongering. In the past few weeks SSN, PUDEMO and its youth wing, the Swaziland Youth Congress (SWAYOCO) have featured predominantly in media reports and official statements about recent sabotage attempts against public road infrastructure. However, no concrete evidence has yet been produced to link these organisations to these activities. Furthermore, the police have not been able to confidently declare that these are indeed acts of terrorism carried out by identifiable organisations for political, social, religious or economic reasons. Thus talks about the presence of a terrorist threat are empty rhetoric and speculation with no substance. Such talks are, at best, acts of political indulgence.<br /><br />If the government fuels speculation about the threat of terrorism, it streams into public fear. This is good news for King Mswati III and his government. It makes governing relatively easy because a fearful population is more susceptible to social control than a fearless population. The ultimate goal of this government is to reclaim the power to rule absolutely by retransforming the nation into docile bodies paralysed by fear. One of PUDEMO's great achievements has been the empowerment of the Swazi population to be less fearful of state power and to openly demand political change. As the population of fearless citizens grew bigger, the state's power-base has been gradually diminished. Swazis have long known that there is rottenness in the state of Swaziland but gradually people have been more able to proclaim this loudly rather than in fearful whispers. As a consequence, the regime is scrambling to regain control, a scenario reminiscent of the late King Sobhuza II's response to the resurgence of pro-democracy politics in the early 1970s.<br /><br />In all aspects, King Mswati III's declaration of war resonates with King Sobhuza II's Proclamation to the Nation in 1973 in which he proscribed opposition political parties. Although supporters of the regime would like us to believe that the enactment of the 2005 Constitution eclipsed the Proclamation, it is indubitable that the principles which underpin this Proclamation remain a major influence in government thinking. All the key aspects of the Proclamation – political fear, hatred and intolerance of political dissent, constitutional vandalism and dictatorship – are evident in the current political development.<br /><br />The proclamation placed dictatorship at the centre of governance. Today, dictatorship remains the cornerstone of the monarchy-led government. Under this system, those capable of furthering this most abhorrent form of political repression are appointed to public office. Thus, the choice of Sibusiso Dlamini is not surprising, given King Mswati III's emphasis on a form of governance based on strangulation rather than peaceful political engagement. In his capacity as Prime Minister from the late 1990s to early 2000s, Dlamini acquired a shocking reputation as a heartless and ruthless political operator. From 2001 to 2003, he was famous for senseless spending on royal luxuries, interference in the administration of justice, media censorship and engaging in political witch-hunts against state critics. He also presided over spectacular examples of government incompetence, such as the disastrous failure to reign in the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Sibusiso Dlamini has the ability of a typical ruthless dictator to act swiftly against state opponents and sluggishly on issues of national development.<br /><br />In 2002, PUDEMO warned that the Sibusiso-led government resembled a steamroller driven by a drunk and that it was capable of causing harm to the nation. At the time, PUDEMO was responding to the government's decision to close down two print media organisations, The Nation and the Swazi Observer, because it didn't like what they published. Despite local and international condemnation against the closure of these media organisations, the steamroller was allowed to continue on its way, causing widespread havoc. It brought Swaziland into the realms of failed statehood by crushing flat one of the most vital institutions of government, the judiciary. On November 28, 2002 Dlamini shocked the nation and international community when he publicly declared that his Majesty's Government would disobey the Court of Appeal judgements in Gwebu and Bhembe v. Rex and Minister of Home Affairs et al. v. Fakudze et al. According to Dlamini, the rulings sought to strip His Majesty King Mswati III of powers accorded to Swazi Kings since "time immemorial". No judge, Mr Dlamini declared, could question the King's decision or challenge his power. An avalanche of local and international condemnation was brought to bear on the regime. King Mswati III recapitulated and removed Dlamini from office. Many Swazis were hopeful that the drunk would be institutionalised in a detoxication centre for good. But alas, that was not to be. The drunk is back behind the wheel of the steamroller looking more intoxicated than he was in his previous term of office. He is back to kill and pillage national resources with impunity.<br /><br />King Mswati III and his chosen henchman, Sibusiso Dlamini, are hoping to use the yesteryear strategy, "war on terrorism", to wage a proxy war against the pro-democracy movement. In 2008, The Suppression of Terrorism Act was enacted as a vehicle to waging this war. The Act gives authorities such as the Prime Minister unlimited powers to proscribe political organisations and wage a vicious witch-hunt against their membership. Immediately after his appointment as Prime Minister, Dlamini proscribed a number of political organisations including PUDEMO as "terrorist entities".<br /><br />Globally, the effectiveness of this strategy to retain unpopular government in office has long receded. In the turn of the 21st century, citizens of various nation states were cajoled into believing that terrorist attacks were imminent and that the state was acting in their interests when it suspended basic rights and freedoms in the name of fighting terrorism. Threats of terrorism, as described by state officials and the media, began to infuse a deep sense of fear, anxiety and insecurity among citizens and fellow travellers. Through advanced technology, acts of "terrorism" were brought into people's living rooms. In most cases, images of terrorism were accompanied by harsh official statements to hunt down "terrorists", "sympathisers", "acquaintances" and "supporters" of terrorism.<br /><br />As nation states became increasingly relentless in their pursuit of "terrorists", they acquired greater presence in people's private lives. Consequently, a state of paralysis emerged among populations of various nation states gripped with fear of "terrorism" and fear of the state. People were fearful of the ever looming terrorist attack and that their political views could be construed by the state as rendering support to terrorism. In the "war on terrorism", over zealous states transformed into terrorist entities causing fear, insecurity and enormous harm to the people they claimed to protect. In many instances, nation states with reputable records of democratic rule used the "war on terrorism" to shred away civil liberties. Kidnapping, arrest, rendition, eavesdropping, persecution and detention without trial were common tools of the "war on terrorism". Indeed, the turn of the 21st century was an era of great fear and strong statehood.<br /><br />Whilst in some countries, particularly democratic nations, the "war on terrorism" introduced political conditions unfamiliar to many people, the majority of Swazis were born into conditions of fear and repression. These conditions, unbearable as they are, have enabled many in Swaziland, particularly those in the pro-democracy movement, to build a strong culture of resilience. PUDEMO leader, Mario Masuku, is a living example of this culture of resilience. Since the formation of PUDEMO more than 20 years ago, he has been in the forefront of the struggle for democracy and has endured the brutality of King Mswati III and his predecessors. He was the first to be arrested under the new terrorism laws. On November 15, 2008, Prime Minister Sibusiso Dlamini ordered the police to arrest Masuku on charges of terrorism. Masuku is accused of providing support to "terrorism" following his response to reports about attempts to bomb bridges.<br /><br />In our view, the charges preferred against Masuku are part of the government's long-term strategy to persecute PUDEMO members. Masuku did not render support to terrorism as alleged by the police. What he said was what all responsible Swazis would have said. He called upon the government to reflect on why these bombing incidents were occurring. In his view, these incidents were an indication that some people in the community have reached the end of their tether and the time had come for the government to reconsider its position on the question of democracy. He implored the government to open talks with the pro-democracy movement to chart a way to a future political dispensation. This is not a statement of support for terrorism but a genuine and forward-looking gesture of goodwill from a man who has committed his life to build a democratic system of governance in Swaziland. A week after Masuku's arrest, the Catholic Church Bishop, Ncamiso Ndlovu expressed similar sentiments and condemned the terrorism laws, the proscription of pro-democracy organisations and the incarceration of Masuku (see All.Africa.com, November 21, 2008 report). It remains to be seen if the government will now arrest Bishop Ndlovu and charge him with supporting terrorism.<br /><br />Masuku has endured frequent arrests and detention because of his political views. However, the determination of the regime to break his spirit has failed to yield results. Instead, it has strengthened his resolve to soldier on and fight for his people. It is against this background that when Sibusiso Dlamini proscribed the pro-democracy movement, Masuku was resolute that we will fight on and we will exercise our rights as members of the global community to disobey unjust laws.<br /><br />The regime may arrest, incarcerate and strangle our members to death but they will never kill our spirit and our movement. PUDEMO has deep roots in the community as a people's political party. It is not a terrorist organisation. PUDEMO has not killed or threatened to kill anyone, caused or attempted to cause fear among the Swazi population and it has not, in its history, threatened to use force to overthrow the government. PUDEMO is, however, committed to the overthrow of the dictatorship monarchy regime through peaceful political processes. This is the core principle of our movement.<br /><br />Various PUDEMO leaders have repeatedly stated that the movement will not be drawn into a military confrontation on terms defined by the regime. It is well known that the government has, on numerous occasions, engaged in activities akin to spoiling for a war. We refused to be party to this and we will continue to do so. It is, therefore, ludicrous to declare PUDEMO a terrorist organisation. Similarly, it is preposterous to arrest and charge PUDEMO leader, Mario Masuku, with acts of terrorism. Masuku has never handled a firearm or explosives, threatened anyone with violence, contemplated to wage a war or supported acts of terrorism.<br /><br />PUDEMO calls upon the people of Swaziland to stay strong and not allow the government to push them back to the 1970s and 1980s. People should disobey the terrorism laws and continue to publicly declare their support and membership to the movement for democracy without fear.<br /><br />The declaration of the "war on terrorism" must be seen as none other than a stunt designed to rejuvenate the culture of political fear in Swaziland. It is important that people understand that this war is part of the government's long-standing agenda to liquidate the pro-democracy movement and to use fear as a political resource. It is not about fighting terrorism because there are no terrorists to fight in Swaziland - just pro-democracy activists demanding a democratic system of governance and respect for basic rights and freedoms.<br /><br />In a remarkable admission, the Prime Minister told diplomats that there are no terrorists in Swaziland yet but maintains that there are terrorist organisations (see Times of Swaziland, November 22, 2008). This statement does not make sense. It is like saying there are no soldiers in Swaziland but there is an army. If the Prime Minster believes that there are no terrorists in Swaziland, he must reverse the government's decision and release the PUDEMO leader from prison. The Prime Minister and his government need to revise their understanding of terrorism, particularly the fundamental question of what makes a person a terrorist. Does a person becomes a terrorist merely because of his/her membership of an organisation that has been officially classified a terrorist entity? Or can an individual become a terrorist, independent of his/her association with an organisation, if he/she engages in the activities outlined in the Suppression of Terrorism Act? The people of Swaziland demand answers to these questions.<br /><br /><br />Signed<br />Dr. Jabulane Matsebula<br />PUDEMO Representative<br />Australia, Asia and the South Pacific Region<br />Contact: j.matsebula@ecu.edu.auUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-763439427134915357.post-27766496741656752772008-11-19T08:33:00.000-08:002009-01-27T08:42:10.719-08:00PUDEMO'S PRESS STATEMENT ON THE ARREST AND DETENTION THE PRESIDENT, CDE MARIO MASUKU AFTER THE BANNING OF THE PEOPLE'S VANGUARD:<span style="font-weight:bold;">PUDEMO'S PRESS STATEMENT ON THE ARREST AND DETENTION THE PRESIDENT, CDE MARIO MASUKU AFTER THE BANNING OF THE PEOPLE'S VANGAURD:</span><br /><br />We the people have learnt with great shock that the country's specific premier has decided to implement the 'Khama Mandate' in his star month, November so bluntly to the effect of banning the People's Movement and its Youth League.<br /><br />Desperate means of a system that has started eating itself up.<br /><br />We the people were formed in 1983, during an error when all political parties in the country were banned, save for the Imbokodvo National Movement (INM) under the draconian law or instrument for that matter, called the 1973 Proclamation. The people's movement was formed for a specific purpose, that of fighting for and defending a constitutional multi-party democracy in this very same land of the Swazis.<br /><br />Our members have been oppressed, harassed, detained, tortured to the effect of jumping out of their father land and to death, shot at, injured and even killed all by the forces of oppression as instructed by the regime wielding its unlimited powers, much to the disregard of the rule of law .<br /><br />Swaziland is part of the global village and that being the case, she can not come up with laws that are going to oppress citizens of this country which we all belong to, whether we agree with the status quo or others have a dissenting view on the question of governance. We the people, have a manifesto which is internationally acceptable since it clearly shows that power belongs to the people and not individuals, and it is therefore not befitting for the Prime Minister of Swaziland, under the instruction of King Mswati 111 to cunningly come up with a legislation that is aimed at throwing our country, the beloved Swaziland, into disarray and fear.<br /><br />Swaziland is a member and signatory to almost all the international conventions, which does not leave out African Union and SADC, in which His Majesty is Head of Troika organ on Politics, Peace and Security. Surprising enough, the person who is supposed to be advocating for peace has literally and out-rightly declared war on the citizens of the country. Such an act is un-acceptable and shall never be even in the next millennium to come.<br /><br />Swaziland's system of governance has always been exploitative from time immemorial, before and after 1973 and 2008 with its Suppression of Terrorism Act.<br /><br />AU Charter:<br /><br />Swaziland was amongst the first 17 African States to sign the convention and has been doing so in many many other conventions, and the other African States are fooled to think that Swaziland is a pace setter but little did they know that Swaziland is the number one violator of these conventions that she becomes the first to sign as a symbol of commitment.<br /><br />This Charter declares one fundamental concept, that all other African States shall not recognize any government that has assumed state power illegitimately and this was signed in 2007. The AU Charterist made one grave mistake, not revamping and removing all those governments that usurped powers from the people, such governments as King Mswati 111's government which so did by repealing the 1968 Constitution and replace it with then 1973 Proclamation first and latter with the 2005 Constitution that was not people driven and was a second edition of the Decree.<br /><br />PUDEMO and all its organs are and shall be terrorist organisations, but the people's movement is a multi-class organisation that has a biass for the poor and the working class. It fights for democracy in its totality as displayed by the tenets and or basic principles. No one single class of society shall dictate its own so called unique democracy. We the people refuse to accept there is such a thing called unique democracy, but we declare to the world that in Swaziland there is more crisis over and above that of Zimbabwe because in this Africa's only remaining kingdom, there is no democracy at all, and no political space.<br /><br />AU therefore must remove King Mswati's government from power, or rather refuse to recognise it because it is illegitimately in power, no matter how new the Charter is, more so because the regime is refusing democratic transformations that should totally overhaul the system and replace it with one that shall have the interest of the majority of the country, and these are 70% populace that do not even understand politics and have no interest on where state power lies, yet they are the primary victims of this heartless government that brandishes man and women of substance as terrorists.<br /><br /> SADC Protocol on democratic Free and Fair Elections:<br /><br />This protocol is just and extension of the AU Charter many more international conventions and we the people, are disgraced that SADC Leaders sit around the table and be convened by the likes of the king of Swaziland who does not understand the simple called meaningful dialogue. Banning organisations that are freedom fighters and brandishing them specified entities and terrorists for that matter and then come up with harsh laws that are aimed at silencing our members and leaders shall not solve our problems as a country but shall lead to the most undesirable consequences which have been seen in many African Countries. PUDEMO calls upon SADC to seek the truth and the truth set set Africa free and Africa shall be free indeed.<br /><br />This Act is just another version of the 60 days detention and has been specifically put into force solely to silence PUDEMO's ideology so that the minority class continues to waste state resources, privatise state owned entrepreneurs, breed corruption, disregard of the rule of law, victimise workers, make unlawful arrests, randomly search homesteads and in the process plant subversive literature, condone impunity, the list is endless.<br /><br /><br />THE ARREST OF THE PEOPLE'S PRESIDENT<br /><br />We the people condemn the arrest of cde Mario Masuku with strongest terms possible based on the following: <br /><br />To the simplest Swazi out there:<br /><br /> <br />What is the national question?<br /><br /> <br />Who is the real terrorist?<br /><br /> <br />Why is it that for the past 40 years the socio-economic problems get worse each parliamentary term?<br /><br /> <br />Why is it that every Prime Minister is deemed having failed during his tenure, even the current one who has been recycled for a specific mandate?<br /><br /> <br />Why do we have recycled leadership?<br /><br /> <br />Why did we have almost all the members of the CDC as Senators in last parliament which then adopted the Swazi Constitution was not people driven.<br /><br /> <br />PUDEMO LIVES AND PUDEMO LEADS <br /><br />THE PEOPLE SHALL SHARE AND THE PEOPLE SHALL GOVERN.<br /> <br />THE STRENGTH OF A FISH IS IN WATER<br /><br /><br />Issued by the office of the SECRETARY GENERAL<br /><br />CDE SIPHASHA DLAMINI:<br /><br />Contact: +268 608 9783Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0