The Congress of South African Trade Unions deplores the decision that, at the request of the prosecution, the trial of Swaziland opposition leader, Mario Masuku, is to be held behind closed doors. Only his immediate family, pastor and lawyers will be allowed to attend. COSATU is further concerned that the charges against Mario Masuku are two counts of “sedition”, related to remarks he made at two political meetings, which it is alleged “undermined the authority of the king”. This clearly shows that he is being charged for making political statements and exercising the right to free speech. This could only be deemed an “offence” in a country where basic human rights are denied.

The political landscape in Swaziland is daily changing due to the intensified brutality and terror of a desperate regime. This desperacy is met with the untiring resolve of the struggling masses of our country to meet fire with fire. This last week saw a huge turn out at a National Prayer service for the jailed President of PUDEMO – Cde Mario Masuku, just a few days before the beginning of the 10-days marathon trial in the capital city of Swaziland, Mbabane, which begins on the 24th January, 2002.