Thulani Maseko was murdered on January 21, 2023, prompting international calls for justice. The #500days campaign seeks to mobilize activists globally, targeting officials to demand accountability. Eswatini, ruled by an absolute monarchy, has a history of oppressing dissent and activists. The campaign runs from June 4-7, 2024, aiming to apply diplomatic pressure on Eswatini’s government regarding Maseko’s case.
On June 4, 2024, it will have been 500 days since the tragic assassination of Thulani Maseko, a dedicated father, husband, and human rights advocate. He bravely advocated for the oppressed, often at great personal risk. Maseko was shot in his home on January 21, 2023, in front of his wife, Tanele, and despite widespread calls for an impartial investigation, justice remains elusive for his family and community.
The call for justice has prompted actions like the 500days postcard campaign urging citizens to send letters to their Ministries of Foreign Relations and Eswatini High Commissions. By raising their voices collectively, supporters aim to pressurize officials to address the circumstances surrounding Maseko’s violent death.
Eswatini, known as Africa’s last absolute monarchy, has been under the reign of King Mswati III since 1986. The monarchy adamantly resists calls for political reform, and dissent is often met with harsh state violence and repressive laws. Activists and journalists have faced arbitrary detention and torture, particularly after 2021 protests for democratic changes.
Maseko was not just a prominent lawyer but also chaired the Multi-Stakeholders Forum, a significant coalition advocating for democracy in Eswatini. He was devoted to speaking against human rights abuses until his assassination, highlighting the risks faced by activists in a repressive regime.
The 500days Week of Action campaign, running from June 4 to June 7, 2024, aims to further mobilize global activism for justice in Maseko’s case. Activists are encouraged to send postcards demanding accountability to their respective foreign ministries and ambassadors stationed in Eswatini to ensure international attention on the issue.
This campaign aims to create a unified global response to compel foreign governments to exert pressure on the Eswatini authorities to prioritize the investigation into Thulani Maseko’s murder. Coordinated efforts among diplomatic missions are crucial for advancing human rights in Eswatini.
The campaign for justice for Thulani Maseko emphasizes the importance of international solidarity in the face of repression. As the 500-day mark approaches, the focus is on mobilizing support to demand accountability and an independent investigation into his killing. Activists are encouraged to participate actively in the #500days campaign to keep the pressure on foreign governments, highlighting the broader struggle for human rights in Eswatini.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
