US Tells Kilmar Ábrego García He Faces Deportation to Eswatini
In a surprise move, the Trump administration informed Kilmar Ábrego García, a Salvadoran man at the center of a long-running immigration dispute, that he could be deported to Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), a small southern African kingdom. The decision comes after the US had previously considered sending him to Uganda and El Salvador.
According to an email obtained by CBS News, an immigration officer stated that they were changing their previous plan to send Ábrego García to Uganda due to his concerns about persecution there. The officer dismissed his claims as "hard to take seriously" but agreed not to send him to Uganda nonetheless.
This is at least the fourth country floated as a potential destination for the 30-year-old, who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador in March and later returned to face criminal charges. US officials acknowledged at the time that he was removed in error.
Ábrego García's deportation case has become a focal point in the administration's crackdown on immigration. He denies being a member of the MS-13 gang, an accusation made by Trump officials. His lawyers have expressed concerns about his safety if deported to Eswatini, citing reports of human rights abuses and corruption in the country.
"Eswatini is not a safe destination for Mr. Ábrego García," said one of his lawyers, who wished to remain anonymous. "We will continue to fight against this decision and ensure that our client receives a fair hearing."
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been criticized for its handling of immigration cases, with many arguing that the agency prioritizes enforcement over due process.
In June, Ábrego García was brought back to the US after being detained in El Salvador. He was subsequently charged with human smuggling and pleaded not guilty.
The decision to send Ábrego García to Eswatini has raised concerns among human rights groups and immigration advocates. "This is a clear example of the Trump administration's disregard for due process and its willingness to use deportation as a tool for punishment," said a spokesperson for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
As the case continues, Ábrego García remains in detention awaiting a hearing on his deportation status.
Background:
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small country located in southern Africa. It has a population of approximately 1.3 million people and a monarchic government. The country has faced criticism for its human rights record, with reports of corruption, police brutality, and restrictions on freedom of speech.
The Trump administration's decision to consider sending Ábrego García to Eswatini has sparked debate among immigration experts and advocates. Some argue that the move is part of a broader effort to expand deportation options for undocumented immigrants, while others see it as an attempt to circumvent due process.
Additional perspectives:
"This decision highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the US immigration system," said a spokesperson for the National Immigration Law Center.
"We urge the Trump administration to reconsider its decision and prioritize Ábrego García's safety and well-being," added a representative from the Salvadoran American Leadership and Educational Fund.
Current status:
Ábrego García remains in detention awaiting a hearing on his deportation status. His lawyers continue to fight against the decision, citing concerns about his safety if deported to Eswatini. The case is expected to be closely watched by immigration advocates and human rights groups.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
