AT the recent 44th SADC Summit in Harare, Zimbabwe, Eswatini’s King Mswati III demonstrated exceptional leadership and diplomatic prowess, successfully leading the Kingdom to be removed from the SADC Troika agenda. Represented by Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, Eswatini effectively articulated its position, culminating in the nation’s exit from the Troika’s oversight—a process that began under the King’s direction during the 43rd SADC Summit in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in 2023.
The Troika, a mechanism within SADC that addresses political and security issues in member states, had previously included Eswatini due to concerns about internal unrest. However, King Mswati’s strategic efforts to communicate the country’s commitment to peace and stability have now paid off. In his remarks at the DRC summit, the King emphasised that any assistance to member states should be based on factual realities rather than rigid adherence to preconceived notions. His statement, ‘The Kingdom of Eswatini is proud of our heritage as a peace-loving nation,’ set the tone for the nation’s successful campaign to exit the Troika agenda.
Upon returning from the 44th SADC Summit, King Mswati III addressed the nation from Ludzidzini Royal Residence, announcing Eswatini’s removal from the Troika agenda. He stressed that this achievement is not a victory of one group over another but a collective triumph for all Emaswati, urging the nation to uphold the values of peace, stability, and development.
The removal from the Troika agenda brings with it a significant responsibility for Eswatini to maintain the peace and order that led to this success
The King’s message was clear: the removal from the Troika agenda brings with it a significant responsibility for Eswatini to maintain the peace and order that led to this success. He called on all citizens to unite and work together, emphasising that the country’s future depends on the contributions and dedication of every individual.
King Mswati III’s leadership during this period underscores his vision for a united Eswatini, where the focus is on collective progress rather than division. He encouraged all Emaswati, including those who may have been in opposition or self-imposed exile, to return and contribute to nation-building. He highlighted that the challenges faced by Eswatini will be resolved from within, not by external forces, and urged those who have committed crimes to return, face justice, and be rehabilitated.
The King’s call for unity extends to the progressive political bloc, urging them to reconsider their stance and join the nation in building a peaceful and prosperous Eswatini. He pointed out that the progressive bloc’s efforts, including calls for boycotts and sanctions, have not gained significant support from the broader population. Instead, King Mswati III emphasised the importance of national cohesion and the need for all Emaswati to come together to ensure the country’s stability and growth.
The political landscape in Eswatini, as the King noted, is shaped by a reality that contrasts sharply with the aspirations of certain political formations. The failure of these groups to achieve their goals, such as during the unrest on June 21st or the attempts to undermine national events, underscores the need for a united front in the face of national challenges.
King Mswati III’s leadership has not only secured Eswatini’s removal from the SADC Troika agenda but also set a course for the nation’s future—one that is defined by peace, unity, and shared progress. He made it clear that unity is the key to Eswatini’s strength and that there is no alternative to national cohesion. As he stated, the path forward is not about ‘us versus them’ but about all Emaswati working together to build a brighter future for the next generations.
The King’s vision is for a nation that remains strong and united, with every citizen playing a role in its development. Eswatini’s success in exiting the Troika agenda is a testament to this vision, and now the focus must be on consolidating these gains for the continued peace and prosperity of the Kingdom.
About The Author
