Boise City Wire

U.S. Senators Jim Risch, Chris Coons, Cory Booker, and Tim Scott have expressed their satisfaction with the Senate's unanimous approval of a resolution condemning the human rights situation in Eswatini and the murder of human rights activist Thulani Maseko.

Senator Risch stated, “I am pleased the Senate passed my resolution with Senator Coons condemning Eswatini's human rights record and Thulani Maseko's murder.” He further emphasized the need for the Eswatini government to investigate Maseko's murder thoroughly and engage in meaningful dialogue on democratic reforms.

Senator Coons, in his remarks, commended the bipartisan effort in passing the resolution. He said, “I applaud the passage of my bipartisan resolution condemning the human rights record of the government of Eswatini and the brutal murder of Thulani Maseko, who was a strong advocate for human rights.” Coons highlighted the lack of progress in investigating Maseko's assassination and pledged to continue advocating for justice for Maseko and his family.

Senator Booker echoed his colleagues' sentiments by emphasizing the importance of condemning the murder of Thulani Maseko and advocating for accountability and justice for his family. Booker stressed the ongoing commitment to defending human rights in Eswatini and beyond.

Senator Scott, recognizing the Senate's unanimous condemnation of political violence and suppression of free speech in Eswatini, emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in addressing human rights violations in the country. He stated, “Transparency and accountability must be restored with respect to public officials complicit in extrajudicial killings, torture, and other egregious human rights violations.”

Eswatini, Africa’s last absolute monarchy, has been under scrutiny for human rights abuses, including unlawful killings and restrictions on freedom of expression. The resolution specifically calls for a transparent investigation into the assassination of Thulani Maseko, a prominent human rights lawyer in Eswatini. Maseko was shot and killed in January 2023, with no significant progress reported in identifying his killers. Advocates believe Maseko was targeted for his advocacy of human rights.

The Senate's resolution aims to urge the Eswatini government to address these human rights violations and conduct a thorough investigation into Maseko's murder.