For Immediate Release
Media Statement
14 March 2025
The recent allegations levelled against Swazi Lives Matter by SWAVISA leader Bongani Madzabudzabu Kunene are as baseless as they are cynical. Mr. Kunene's transparent attempt to drag Swazi Lives Matter into his own factional squabbles reeks of desperation. We categorically refute all allegations made against Swazi Lives Matter and view them as baseless attempts to tarnish the reputation of our organization, which has consistently and unwaveringly fought for justice, democracy, and human rights in Swaziland.
One cannot help but suspect that Mr. Kunene's attack is a clumsy effort to distract from troubles within his own organization, troubles for which he alone bears responsibility. Scapegoating and smear tactics are the last refuge of failed leadership. If SWAVISA is beset by problems, the solution lies in honest introspection, not in lashing out at others fighting the good fight.
The claim that Swazi Lives Matter is working with Tinkhundla-aligned structures is an ill-conceived effort to discredit the critical work we are doing through the Justice 4 Swaziland Campaign. This is nothing more than a distraction from the real issues that SWAVISA is facing, which are entirely self-inflicted. We will not allow ourselves to be used as a deflection from their mismanagement, instead, we advise Bongani Madzabudzabu Kunene to focus his efforts on addressing the challenges within his own organization.
Swazi Lives Matter remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that the struggle for a free, democratic, and just Swaziland is ultimately realized. We are not shaken, nor will we be distracted by petty political infighting. We recognize these tactics for what they are—an attempt to derail the movement for genuine change.
As a non-partisan movement, Swazi Lives Matter does not engage in factional battles—whether based on tactical differences, leadership disputes, or personal conflicts. Our role is to build bridges, not widen divisions. We seek to engage, reconcile, and expand the collective struggle against the common enemy, the Tinkhundla dictatorship.
Let it be known that Swazi Lives Matter will continue to fight for the rights of the oppressed, advocate for justice, and expose the truth. No amount of smear campaigns, baseless accusations, or intimidation will stop us. Swazi Lives Matter reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the cause of democracy, human rights, and unity within the Mass Democratic Movement (MDM) in Swaziland
We will overcome. This too shall pass.
Swazi Lives Matter
This too shall pass.