Measures by Government to pressure the Government of Swaziland into making Democratic Reforms, other than the Conditions stipulated in the Terms of the Bail-out Loan

QUOTE

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

FOR ORAL REPLY

QUESTION NO: 586 (CW681)

PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 38-2011 OF 18 NOVEMBER 2011

Mr RA LEES TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:

1. Whether the Government has identified any other measures to pressure the Government of Swaziland into making democratic reforms, other than the conditions stipulated in the terms of the bail-out loan; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what measures?
   
   
2. Whether the Government is pursuing any other measures to encourage democratic reforms in Swaziland; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

REPLY:

1. No. The Government subscribes to international principles of respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. Within the framework of the principle of self-determination of states, the Swazi people have the right to determine the path and destiny of their own country.
   
   
2. No. South Africa uses the diplomatic channel to encourage the Swazis to engage in a process of meaningful political dialogue aimed at determining the country’s future based on the will of the Swazi people. 

UNQUOTE