THE SWAZI UPRISING

This is a quick post just because the situation here suggests reassurance of our well-being.
The “April 12 uprising” has come and gone. The only sign of anything different in this area was a squad of ‘peacekeepers’ in the middle of the street near our town center, and a strange silence—almost eerie, knowing the facts—which was also noticed by another PCV. Part of the fizzle was because the Prime Minister declared, last week, that any demonstrations would be illegal, and so there were numerous peremptory arrests. Those who did demonstrate were met with water cannon, tear gas, batons, and rubber bullets. …That, and the fact that Swazis operate on APT (African People Time) which means that the Tuesday uprising might still manifest tomorrow. There are continued rumblings that the police action has merely pushed things under the surface and the uprising will erupt again on the King’s birthday anniversary next week. And I’ve just read a lengthy statement by the Swazi Solidarity Network which blames the public for not getting involved, not taking action, and other things—forcefully stated—that I dare not repeat here.
There were hints that other communities might have demonstrated, but we feel that our quiet corner of the kingdom was never in question. We are fortunate (well, unusual) in that we have rapid access to the internet.
Some of you accessed the New York Times article; others know the facts as well as we do. So just briefly:
King Mswati is one of the richest men in the world; 70% of the nation live on less than US$1/day.
The nation is run under “emergency rule”; political parties are banned, appointments are through the absolute monarchy.
Individual rights are determined through the inkhundla system (see above) and corruption is reportedly rampant.
HIV is 26%; unemployment 40%; revenue down 60%;
57% of wealth held by richest 20%; 4% of wealth distributed among poorest 20%
The king supports his 14 wives in an opulent style and is planning an extravagant celebration for his anniversary on the throne.
When approached with complaints from within his kingdom, the New York Times reports that the king responded with these inspiring words to his public, “Work harder and sacrifice more”.