The United States has deported 10 individuals to Eswatini, despite ongoing legal efforts by human rights organizations in the country to halt the process. This marks the second group of deportees sent under the Trump administration’s stringent immigration policies. The Eswatini prison department stated that these individuals have been “securely accommodated” and do not pose a threat to the public.
Human rights lawyer Mzwandile Masuku expressed surprise that the government accepted this group while a court case regarding the deportation of five people from various countries, including Jamaica and Cuba, was still active. The U.S. government described these five individuals as “depraved monsters.” Notably, one Jamaican deportee has since returned to his country, and two others are expected to be repatriated shortly.
The Eswatini government previously announced its agreement with the U.S. to accept deportees, stating plans to take in 11 individuals. However, the arrival consisted of only 10 people, and their identities have not been disclosed. A statement from the acting spokesperson indicates that arrangements will be made for their return to their countries of origin, underscoring the government’s stance to separate the foreign deportees from the public.
This recent deportation occurs ahead of a court case regarding the legality of these actions, which Mr. Masuku suggested should prompt the government to respect the judicial process prior to accepting further deportees. The deal between Eswatini and the U.S. reportedly allows for as many as 160 deportees in exchange for $5.1 million to enhance border management.
Critics argue that this arrangement signifies potential constitutional overreach, as it lacked parliamentary consent. Concerns regarding the potential influx of deportees into neighboring South Africa have also been raised, prompting the Eswatini government to assure the public about the secure detention of these individuals. Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a landlocked nation bordered by South Africa and Mozambique and has been under the rule of King Mswati III since 1986.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn5qdx260lzo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss