May 21 SD 2007

In May 2005, Paul Boateng was appointed the UK High Commissioner to Swaziland, as well as South Africa. In Feb 2006, he caused a stir as he called for the unbanning of political parties when presenting his credentials at Lozitha Royal Palace in Swaziland. Two weeks ago he spoke of multi-party elections; he understands democratic principles and is a rare politician for speaking out so clearly on this matter.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Boateng
Feb 17, 2006 Unban political parties says UK
May 10, 2007 British call for parties by 2008
May 14, 2007 Constitution implementation needs to move rapidly

Currently in Swaziland there is concern about housing for police officers. Earlier this month a single officer allegedly raped his house mate's teenage daughter. Single and married officers share accommodations and it seems male and female officers are also sharing their quarters. Clearly there is a problem and the government will no doubt set up a commission or inquiry but the situation is plain to all. To keep a tight grip of control on the people of Swaziland, the government increases the number of police but is unconcerned over the basis needs of these individuals. At the same time, police are not able to organize and form a union in Swaziland and recently two members have been fired from the police service for doing so!

May 4 Cop rapes housemate’s daughter
May 18 Police to probe female cop who shared with male
May 8 Cop union angered by continuous victimisation
May 21 Unions march to PM on ‘victimised’ cops

To follow current events in Swaziland see LATEST NEWS