Manzini: A chorus of condemnation has emerged from labour unions, youth movements and international organisations following the prohibition of May Day commemoration by TUCOSWA in the country.
This move has been described as as an attack on workers’ rights and freedoms of assembly.
The Swaziland Youth Congress (SWAYOCO), the Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA), the National Public Service and Allied Workers Union (NAPSAWU), and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) all issued statements, strongly criticising the decision by authorities to block the annual Workers’ Day gathering.
SWAYOCO, in its statement, said it stood with workers locally and globally, while condemning what it termed continued repression. The youth organization characterized the prohibition of May Day activities as part of a broader pattern of suppressing workers and silencing dissent.
The organisation specifically condemned the denial of access to Hlathikhulu High School, where workers had intended to gather for the commemorations. It stated that the decision, taken through the office of the Regional Administrator, amounted to deliberate political repression and an unlawful restriction on gatherings that reflect the lived realities of workers.
SWAYOCO further linked the latest developments to past incidents, including the 2021 unrest in which it alleged over 100 people were killed, alleging that state authorities had previously acted to suppress peaceful civic activities. The organisation said such actions demonstrated a continued assault on fundamental freedoms, particularly the rights to assembly and association.
In its message, SWAYOCO also paid tribute to trade unionist Sipho Jele, who died in detention in 2010 after being arrested during May Day commemorations. The organisation described him as a martyr who had stood for workers’ rights and political freedom.
The youth movement called for unity within the labour movement, urging all unions to rally under TUCOSWA. It stressed that fragmentation weakened workers’ struggles and reiterated the principle of “One Country, One Federation.”
On the international front, ITUC-Africa issued a strongly worded statement condemning the prohibition and calling for its immediate reversal. The organisation said workers in Eswatini had been denied the opportunity to participate in a global day of solidarity.
ITUC-Africa emphasised that workers must be allowed to assemble, organise and express their views freely. It further called on Eswatini to uphold constitutional rights and adhere to international labour standards, specifically referencing International Labour Organization Conventions 87 and 98, which guarantee freedom of association and the right to organise.
The international body urged authorities to align with these principles and allow workers to stand in solidarity with their counterparts across the world during May Day commemorations.
Locally, NAPSAWU also expressed concern over the developments, describing the situation as a “dark cloud” over workers in the country. While acknowledging internal challenges within the labour movement, the union condemned the government’s decision to prevent workers from commemorating the day.
The union encouraged its members not to lose hope despite the setback, emphasising the importance of unity within TUCOSWA. NAPSAWU reiterated its commitment to strengthening the federation and working collaboratively with other affiliates to address shared challenges.
It further highlighted ongoing socio-economic pressures faced by workers, including rising costs of living driven by increases in electricity, fuel and other essential goods. The union indicated that it remained committed to engaging with the federation and other stakeholders to address these concerns.
TUCOSWA, in its own statement, confirmed that the May Day gathering had been prohibited despite the federation complying with legal requirements. The federation said it had provided more than the stipulated notice under the Public Order Act to relevant authorities, including the Hlathikhulu Town Board and the Shiselweni Regional Administration.
According to TUCOSWA, the prohibition was communicated by the Regional Administrator, who maintained that authority over the matter rested with a local chief. The federation disputed this interpretation, stating that the law clearly designates the Regional Administrator as the relevant authority in such cases.
Following the prohibition, TUCOSWA approached the Magistrate’s Court in the Shiselweni Region seeking a review of the decision. However, the court dismissed the application on procedural grounds, citing the non-joinder of the local chief.
Despite the legal setback, the federation indicated that it was exploring further legal avenues and engaging with international partners to raise concerns over the situation.
TUCOSWA apologised to workers for the inconvenience and economic losses resulting from the cancellation of the event, while urging them to prioritise their safety.
Across all statements, organisations consistently emphasised the importance of workers’ rights to gather, organise and commemorate May Day. The convergence of local and international voices highlighted growing concern over restrictions on labour activities in the country.
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