Mbabane – The Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini has countered claims made by a US legal firm, issuing a press statement that denies a third-country national from the United States is currently on a hunger strike.
The statement, released on October 22, 2025, by Acting Government Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli, clarifies that an individual is instead fasting and praying due to missing his family.
Following the press statement from the US legal firm, the Eswatini Government said it immediately dispatched a team to verify the allegations. The national was reportedly found “in good health and spirits” but admitted to the religious practice. He is currently taking liquids as part of his fast and remains in communication with both his family and his US lawyers.
Mdluli said the government upholds freedom of religion as a fundamental human right, stating that third-country nationals are “allowed to practice their faith through worship, prayer, and spiritual guidance.” The statement added that the Government “has no intention to interfere” with the nation’s religious practices.
However, a condition has been put in place: the individual “will be monitored to ensure that his prayer and fasting do not affect his health.”
Mdluli said that all third-country nationals are “in good hands” and receiving “physical and psychosocial support, including counselling.” They are also being provided with “comprehensive healthcare to ensure their physical well-being.”
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