Eswatini Confirms Arrival of 10 More People as Part of US Deportation Deal
Mbabane, Eswatini - Ten individuals deported by the United States have arrived in Eswatini, marking the second group of third-country nationals sent to the southern African kingdom under a deal between the two countries. The development has sparked concerns among human rights organizations and lawyers, who argue that it violates international law.
According to a statement posted on social media by the Eswatini government before their arrival on Monday, the individuals will be kept in a secured area separate from the public while arrangements are made for their return to their countries of origin. The statement added that the government would work with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on the returns.
"This is a clear indication that Eswatini is willing to cooperate with the US on deportation matters, despite concerns raised by human rights organizations," said Thulile Nkosi, a local lawyer who has been following the case. "We urge the government to ensure that these individuals are treated fairly and in accordance with international law."
The arrival of the 10 deportees brings the total number of third-country nationals sent to Eswatini under the deal to 15. The first group of five men was deported last month, sparking protests from local activists who argued that they were being used as a "dumping ground" for individuals deemed undesirable by the US.
The US Department of Homeland Security has confirmed that it is working with Eswatini to facilitate the return of third-country nationals, but has not provided further details on the reasons behind the deportations or the countries of origin of the individuals involved.
Eswatini's decision to accept the deportees has been met with criticism from human rights organizations, who argue that it sets a precedent for other countries in the region. "This deal is a clear indication that Eswatini is willing to compromise its sovereignty and human rights obligations for economic gain," said Khanyisile Moyo, a spokesperson for the African Human Rights Network.
The IOM has been working closely with the Eswatini government on the returns, but has not commented on the specifics of the deal. "We are committed to supporting the government in ensuring that these individuals are returned safely and in accordance with international law," said an IOM spokesperson.
As the situation unfolds, local activists are calling for greater transparency and accountability from the Eswatini government. "We urge the government to come clean about the reasons behind this deal and ensure that the rights of these individuals are protected," said Nkosi.
The next development in the case is expected to be a meeting between the Eswatini government and human rights organizations to discuss the implications of the deal and the treatment of the deportees.
*Reporting by Theguardian.*
