12 June, 2024
Pretoria, 12 June 2024 – Today, the Centre for Human Rights at the Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria, in partnership with the Thulani Maseko Foundation and Corruption Watch, hosted the Thulani Maseko Democracy Lecture today. The event was a poignant reminder of the persistent injustices faced by human rights defenders in Swaziland and beyond. Moderated by Ms. Noma Masiko-Mpaka, a researcher at Human Rights Watch, the lecture brought together a distinguished panel and audience to discuss “The Lack of Accountability and Impunity in the Persecution of Human Rights Defenders.”
Commemoration and Reflection
The lecture, held in the shadow of the over 500 days since the brutal assassination of Thulani Maseko, served not only as a commemoration of his life and work but also as a call to action. Thulani Maseko, a revered human rights lawyer and fervent advocate for constitutional reform in Swaziland, was murdered on January 21, 2023. Since then, there has been a glaring lack of progress in bringing his killers to justice, highlighting a disturbing trend of impunity in cases involving human rights defenders (HRDs).
Keynote Speakers and Discussion Points
The gathering included poignant contributions from Mrs. Tenele Maseko, Thulani’s widow, Dr. Sipho Malunga, Mr. John Jeffrey, Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Professor Elsabe Schoeman, Dean of the Faculty of Law at UP, and Professor Frans Viljoen, a noted Professor of International Human Rights Law. These speakers shared insights into the critical need for protecting whistle-blowers and HRDs, emphasizing their indispensable role in safeguarding democracy and human rights.
Critical Objectives Highlighted
1. Protection of Whistle-blowers and HRDs: The lecture underscored the urgent need for robust measures to protect those who champion human rights and expose corruption. HRDs are pivotal in promoting democratic principles and their safety is paramount.
2. Commemoration of Thulani Maseko: The event honoured the legacy of Thulani Maseko, reflecting on his enduring contributions to human rights and his advocacy for constitutional reform in Swaziland. His tragic assassination remains a stark symbol of the dangers faced by HRDs.
3. Addressing Impunity: A significant focus was placed on the prevailing impunity for those who perpetrate crimes against HRDs. The speakers highlighted the lack of accountability and transparency in such cases, demanding justice for victims like Thulani Maseko.
4. Policy Reforms and Frameworks: The discussion emphasized the necessity of implementing and enforcing existing regional and international frameworks designed to protect HRDs. The need for policy reforms to enhance these protections was strongly advocated.
5. Democratic Principles: The importance of upholding the rule of law, accountability, and transparency in safeguarding HRDs was reiterated. These principles are fundamental in creating an environment where HRDs can operate without fear of persecution.
6. Strategic Collaboration: The lecture called for a united effort among civil society organizations, human rights defenders, policymakers and the international community. Such collaboration is crucial for strategizing effective ways to support and protect HRDs.
7. Building Political Will: Proposals were made to build political will and promote democratic governance to uphold the rights of HRDs and ensure those responsible for their persecution are held accountable.
Conclusion and Call to Action
As Lawyers for Democratic Reform in Swaziland (LAW-DERSWA), we echo the calls made during the Thulani Maseko Democracy Lecture. It is imperative that the government of Swaziland and the international community at large, take immediate and decisive action to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the murder of Thulani Maseko. His death must not be in vain. We must honour his legacy by reinforcing our commitment to human rights, ensuring accountability and fostering a safe environment for all those who dare to defend democracy.
Today’s lecture serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and the vital need to protect those on the front lines of human rights advocacy. We must remain vigilant, resolute, and unified in our efforts to uphold the principles Thulani Maseko lived and died for.
LAW-DERSWA remains dedicated to continuing this fight, and we call on all stakeholders to join us in demanding justice, transparency and accountability.