By Zweli Martin Dlamini

MBABANE:International human rights organizations have reiterated the calls for an inclusive and meaningful political dialogue in eSwatini.

A questionnaire was sent to Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo, however, he had not responded at the time of compiling this report.

In a joint statement sent to this Swaziland News on Thursday, the Southern African Human Rights Defenders Network(SAHRDN), the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights and the Southern African People’s Solidarity Network (SAPSN) among others, said they noted with great concern that the crisis erupted after King Mswati issued a decree banning citizens from delivering petitions to Parliamentarians.

As a result,the human rights groups said the political and security situation in the country has continuously deteriorated, with reports of violent crackdowns undertaken by security forces on protesters and more recently, violent retaliation against police officers.

They further urged eSwatini to demonstrate a commitment and create a conducive environment that facilitated an inclusive, comprehensive and genuine national dialogue.

 “Demonstrate a commitment and create a conducive environment that facilitates an inclusive,

comprehensive and genuine national dialogue.Immediately review and repeal oppressive laws such as the 1938 Sedition and Subversive Activities Act (SSA Act) and the 2008 Suppression of Terrorism Act (STA).Honour and respect their obligations to regional institutions such as SADC by subjecting themselves to its conflict resolution processes.Immediately release all political prisoners and facilitate the return of all political exiles.Consider the ongoing plight of the people of Eswatini and the regional security implications of the continued instability of the kingdom,”reads the statement in part.