Swazi security forces are monitoring some of the
candidates nominated to contest the forthcoming Swaziland national election
because they are members of a political party.
The Swaziland Democratic Party (SWADEPA) reports that
some of its members, who were nominated earlier this month (August 2013), are
being scrutinised by state security forces.
Political parties are banned from taking part in the elections
in Swaziland where King Mswati III rules as sub-Saharan Africa’s last absolute
monarch.
SWADEPA leadership said before the election nominations took
place its members would stand for the House of Assembly, but only as individuals.
SWADEPA now fears for the safety of those of its members
who were nominated.
Secretary General Archie Sayed, who is himself standing
for election, told local media his party would not disclose publicly the names
of its members who were nominated.
He said the party had decided to protect its members from
any possible harassment by state security forces.
‘We cannot reveal the names of our members until further
notice. This is for security reasons. We are being monitored. We have received
reports from our members that they are being monitored by state security
agents,’ he said.
SWADEPA is one of two political parties that declared that
it would take part in the elections: the other party is Sibahle Sinje Sive
Siyinqaba, a pro-Royalist organisation.
See also
NEW ELECTION BLUNDER IN SWAZILAND
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