MBABANE:Assassinated eSwatini highly regarded human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko has been awarded by the United States(US) for his role in advocating for human rights and constitutional reforms in this tiny undemocratic Kingdom.
Maseko was awarded by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday and the award was accepted by his wife Tanele Maseko.
The assassinated human rights lawyer was a member of eSwatini’s main and largest political party, the People’s United Democratic Movement(PUDEMO).
In a public statement sent to this Swaziland News, Brian Sangweni, the PUDEMO Spokesperson expressed gratitude to the United States for honoring the late human rights lawyer.
“The People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) expresses its heartfelt gratitude to theSecretary of State, Antony J. Blinken, the Government of the United States of America, and the people of America for honoring Comrade Thulani Maseko with the Secretary’s Human Rights Defenders Award. The award was received on his behalf by his wife, Comrade Tenele Maseko, herself a dedicated Human Rights Defender.The Secretary’s Human Rights Defenders Award, given by the U.S. Department of State, honors individuals or groups for their extraordinary commitment to promoting human rights in difficult and dangerous conditions.The award amplifies their voices, provides visibility as a protective measure, and acknowledges their impactful work. Criteria include exceptional courage, leadership in justice and accountability, and demonstrable community impact. It highlights defenders’ sacrifices, inspires advocacy, and strengthens international solidarity, encouraging global movements to continue pursuing justice, freedom, and the rule of law. This recognition emphasizes the vital role of human rights defenders in creating meaningful change worldwide”, reads the statement in part.
Eswatini is an absolute Monarchy, human rights defenders are arrested, tortured and killed for demanding democracy while political parties are banned from participating in elections.
US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken awarding the late lawyer Thulani Maseko, the award was accepted by his wife Tanele Maseko.