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From 1906 to 1968, Swaziland (now Eswatini) was under British indirect rule. After the Second Boer War in 1903, Swaziland, along with Basutoland (now Lesotho) and Bechuanaland (now Botswana), became part of the British “High Commission Territories.” However, a formal protectorate was never established due to unresolved terms with Swazi Queen Regent Labotsibeni Mdluli.
**Independence and Political Evolution (1968–Present)**
Eswatini gained independence on September 6, 1968, marking the start of a new political chapter. His Majesty King Sobhuza II delivered the first official “Speech from the Throne” during the Independence Day State Opening, a tradition inherited from British Westminster governance. This event marks the beginning of each parliamentary session and sets out the government’s legislative agenda.
Swaziland’s bicameral Parliament (Libandla) includes the Senate (30 seats) and the House of Assembly (65 seats). Elections are held every five years, with the most recent elections taking place on September 29, 2023.
**Suspension of the Constitution and Rule by Decree**
Following the 1972 elections, King Sobhuza II suspended the constitution in 1973, ruling by decree until his death in 1982. The first non-party elections took place in 1978 under the tinkhundla system, in which electoral constituencies were determined by the King.
The process of constitutional reform began in the 1990s, fueled by growing student and labor protests. Despite public criticism and opposition from political activists, Eswatini introduced a new constitution in 2005. This constitution, while recognizing elections, does not explicitly address the legal status of political parties.
**The Regency and Rise of King Mswati III**
Following Sobhuza II’s death in 1982, Queen Regent Dzeliwe Shongwe ruled until her removal in 1984. Queen Mother Ntfombi Tfwala then served as regent until her son, Mswati III, ascended to the throne in 1986.
**Land and Diplomatic Tensions with South Africa**
In 1982, an unfulfilled agreement between South Africa and Swaziland aimed to transfer portions of the Zulu homeland and parts of KaNgwane to Swaziland. The land transfer, which would have given Swaziland sea access, was met with local opposition and ultimately failed.
**Modern Political and Economic Challenges**
The 1990s saw increased pressure for political reforms. Swaziland experienced economic challenges, particularly in 2011, when reduced Southern African Customs Union (SACU) revenues led the government to seek financial assistance from South Africa. However, political reform demands tied to the loan were rejected.
Today, Eswatini continues to navigate its complex political landscape, holding non-partisan elections every five years, with constitutional debates and calls for reform still part of the nation’s evolving story.
