Human Rights activists from East Africa held a peace procession to condemn the murder of human rights defenders in Kenya, Africa and the continued silence by the government of Kenya.

Speaking at the Jeevanje Gardens during a peaceful procession, Human rights activist Rachel Mwikali condemned the murder of human rights Lawyer Thulani Maseko who endured unjust imprisonment, intimidation and threats in Eswatini till his death.

“We are Africans, we have no boundaries and as activists we have no borders, and when one of us is killed we must as one hold the responsible government accountable,” said Mwikali.

Further she urged the Kenyan government to forfeit working with the Eswatini government due to the continued extra judicial killings.

The activists proceeded to present their demands to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

The demands by the civil society groups include the African Union (AU) leaders hold the government of Eswatini accountable for its extra judicial killings, immediate dismissal of the Eswatini’s police commissioner under whose command rogue police officers are assassinating citizens, appeal to South Africa to withdraw its diplomatic ties to Eswatini, call upon African citizens and HRDs globally, to arise and demand for justice through every legal channel available.

She also encouraged residents of Eswatini to remain vigilant in the quest for democracy, transparency and accountability among their leaders.

Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary (PS), Dr. Korir Sing’oei applauded the HRDs for their relentless spirit and peaceful protests against the plight of activists.

“Extra-Judicial killing of anyone is a threat to human rights everywhere,” said Korir who also assured the activists that he would submit the memoranda to the highest authority of Eswatini.