King Sobhuza II's Repeal of Constitution and Rise of Absolute Monarchy in Eswatini.

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 | Political | Global Trade |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published:  | Updated:
4 min read

In Eswatini, King Sobhuza II repealed the existing constitution, dissolved the nation's parliament, and assumed complete control over the government. This marked a pivotal change in the country’s political structure. The prior constitution had been in place since the country's independence and was characterized by a parliamentary democracy. However, the monarch believed that the Western-style governance model conflicted with traditional Swazi values and hindered national unity and progress. The abolition of the constitution centralized all legislative, executive, and judicial powers under the monarchy. Subsequently, King Sobhuza II banned all political activities and trade unions, arguing that these entities caused division and unrest within the nation. This move effectively suppressed opposition and consolidated his rule. The dissolution of political institutions underlined a shift towards an absolute monarchy, significantly reducing political pluralism and civic participation. Critics condemned the decision as a step backward towards authoritarianism, while supporters maintained it was crucial for preserving cultural traditions and stability. The impact of these actions shaped the nation’s governance for decades, establishing a legacy of absolute monarchy that would influence subsequent rulers and policies. The international community responded with concern, pointing out the potential for human rights violations and lack of democratic freedoms. Internally, the population experienced restricted political expression and limited avenues for advocating workers' rights. For Eswatini, this historical pivot reflected a broader dialogue on the balance between modern governance models and traditional leadership structures. The repercussions of this decision have continued to resonate in the socio-political landscape of the country. #Eswatini #KingSobhuzaII #Heritage #PoliticalChange #MoofLife
Primary Reference: Swaziland (04/09)
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