ZIMBABWE’S EMBRACE OF KING MSWATI III IS A BLOW TO DEMOCRACY

In a move that has raised eyebrows across the continent, Zimbabwe recently played host to King Mswati III of Eswatini at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF). While the event is meant to showcase trade and investment opportunities, this year’s edition highlighted something far more troubling: the state of democracy in Africa.

King Mswati III is Africa’s last absolute monarch. He has ruled Eswatini since 1986, presiding over a nation plagued by poverty, unemployment, political repression, and human rights violations. Political parties are banned, dissent is crushed, and the king holds unchecked power over the legislature, the judiciary, and the economy. His autocratic rule has led to repeated protests and widespread international criticism.

Against this backdrop, Zimbabwe’s decision to honour King Mswati at ZITF sends a worrying signal. Rather than standing with the people of Eswatini who are demanding democratic reforms, Zimbabwe appears to be aligning itself with authoritarianism. This raises questions not just about Zimbabwe’s own democratic path but also about Africa’s broader political direction.

While Zimbabwe has its own well-documented governance issues, it has at times shown signs of moving toward democratic accountability. However, inviting a monarch who openly suppresses his people undercuts that progress. It undermines the credibility of the ZITF as a platform for sustainable, inclusive growth. Economic development cannot thrive in an environment where democracy, transparency, and the rule of law are ignored.

This gesture also reflects a larger crisis: democratic backsliding across Africa. From Central to West and now Southern Africa, autocrats are tightening their grip while civic space shrinks. By celebrating a ruler like King Mswati, Zimbabwe contributes to the normalization of repression rather than championing the values needed for long-term prosperity.

The presence of King Mswati at ZITF is more than just a diplomatic misstep. It is an insult to pro-democracy activists in Eswatini and a slap in the face to Africans striving for justice, freedom, and better governance. Zimbabwe should be using platforms like ZITF to foster regional solidarity, innovation, and democratic progress — not to offer legitimacy to repressive regimes.

The situation in Eswatini is a cautionary tale for Africa. Concentrating power in the hands of one individual breeds inequality, stifles progress, and fuels unrest. African leaders who seek a better future must distance themselves from such models of governance.

Zimbabwe still has an opportunity to chart a different course. It can choose to stand with the people of Africa who demand dignity, rights, and opportunity. It can work with democratic governments and movements to build a continent grounded in accountability, respect for human rights, and economic justice.

As the world watches, Zimbabwe must decide whether it wants to be remembered as a country that stood with tyrants or one that championed a better, freer Africa. The presence of King Mswati III at ZITF is a reminder of the work that still needs to be done — and of the courage required to stand on the right side of history.