Some AU countries snub Mswati’s 40th throne celebration

African Union (AU) heads of state snubbed King Mswati’s 40 years on the throne celebrations that took place at the Somhlolo National Stadium on Friday, reports Swaziland News. It has been disclosed that the AU heads of state were invited through the African Union but, a majority of them snubbed the event. The move has been applauded by eSwatini’s main liberation movement, the People’s United Democratic Movement (Pudemo). Brian Sangweni, Pudemo spokesperson, said they noted that many African heads of state and governments ‘chose not to attend King Mswati’s 58th birthday and Ruby Jubilee’ double celebration'. ‘If it was a deliberate decision, made in recognition of the plight of the people of Swaziland and in rejection of King Mswati’s continued refusal to embrace democracy, then these leaders have taken the right path. By choosing not to participate in these extravagant festivities, history will remember these leaders as having made a noble and courageous act. The international community must continue to reject the oppressive royal family and support the struggle for democracy and dignity in Swaziland,’ said Sangweni. Present were Botswana President Duma Boko, Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Mozambique President Daniel Chapo and Lesotho’s King Letsie. Former Botswana President Lieutenant General Ian Khama, ex-South African President Jacob Zuma and former President of the DRC Joseph Kabila were present.

Full Swaziland News report