Search This Blog

Friday, 7 August 2020

Likely new U.S. Ambassador to Swaziland will press for political reform in kingdom


Jeanne Marie Maloney, the woman who is set to become the next United States Ambassador to Swaziland (eSwatini), has pledged to press the kingdom on political reform.

She told a US Senate Foreign Relations Committee confirmation hearing that if her nomination for the position was confirmed, ‘I will continue to engage broadly on the need for political reform, open discourse, transparency, and inclusivity.’

She added, ‘I am committed to working to improve democracy, governance, and transparency, in order to help create an economic climate that benefits the entire population.’

King Mswati III rules Swaziland as an absolute monarch. Political parties are banned from taking part in elections and the King appoints the Prime Minister and Cabinet ministers. He also appoints top judges and public servants.

If confirmed, as expected, Maloney would replace Ambassador Lisa Peterson who has angered the King’s supporters by publicly calling for political parties to be allowed to contest elections and for highlighting the lavish lifestyles of the King and members of his family while the majority of Swazi people live in abject poverty. She has also called for constitutional changes to rein in the King.

Maloney told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Thursday (6 August 2020), ‘I will also seek to expand our dialogue with the country’s youth, who make up more than half the population.’ 

She added, ‘The percentage of its population living in poverty remains stubbornly high. If confirmed, it will be important to coordinate with international organizations like the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, as well as like-minded partners to help eSwatini create an environment that fosters broad-based economic growth and opportunities for US trade and investment.’

She said, ‘I will do my best to continue to strengthen our partnership with the Government and the people of eSwatini in support of US goals and interests.’

In a profile published on the US Department of State website Maloney is described as a career member of the Senior Foreign Service. She most recently served as the Foreign Policy Advisor to the US Army Africa in Vicenza, Italy.  Previously, she was the Director of the Office of Security Affairs in the Department of State’s Bureau of African Affairs.  
 
Jeanne Marie Maloney

Maloney has served in a broad range of leadership positions over the course of her 26-year career. ‘Her knowledge of issues affecting the African region, demonstrated record of leadership, and success working with interagency and foreign partners make her well-qualified to serve as US Ambassador to the Kingdom of eSwatini,’ the website states.

See also

U.S. Ambassador to Swaziland wants constitutional change to stop King’s lavish spending

U.S. Ambassador to Swaziland renews criticism of King’s lavish spending while people live in poverty

Threat to censor U.S. Ambassador to Swaziland after criticism of King’s lavish spending

U.S. Ambassador calls for repeal of decree that makes Swaziland an absolute monarchy


No comments: