Swaziland democracy strikers hold firm

Issue 

Swaziland democracy strikers hold firm

By Norm Dixon

Mass meetings of striking Swaziland workers in the vital sugar and forestry industries voted on February 16 to continue a general strike into its third week. The strikers, organised by the Swaziland Federation of Trade Unions (SFTU), are demanding that the autocratic King Mswati legalise free political activity and reintroduce constitutional rule.

The SFTU's four national officers, as well as leaders of the outlawed opposition parties, remain in detention facing charges that could result in life imprisonment. The SFTU insists the strike will continue until its demands for democracy are met and its leaders released unconditionally. The government offered to release the trade unionists if the federation agreed to end the strike.

The Congress of South African Trade Unions has threatened to impose a total blockade on Swaziland if the SFTU leaders are not released and the charges against them dropped.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.