Condolences pour in for top lawyer Thulani Maseko

By Ntombi Mhlongo

Grief and shock best describe the feeling of many following the death of Human Rights Lawyer Thulani Rudolf Maseko.

Maseko was allegedly shot dead by unknown men who fired several gunshots at his home near Bhunya in the Manzini Region. Following the news, many emaSwati took to social media to express their grief and send condolences to his family and friends.

Also sending condolences was the Government of Eswatini through its Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo. In a press statement, Nxumalo said Maseko’s death is a loss to the nation as his footprints as a human rights lawyer are there as proof of his contribution to the country.

The spokesperson said Maseko will surely be missed.

“Our security forces have assured the government that they are already at work looking for the killers and they will not rest until they are brought to book, the same way some of the gun-totting individuals have been rounded up in recent weeks. We urge the nation to alert the police if they have any information that may help in the apprehension of these criminals,” said Nxumalo in the press statement.

He condemned the ruthless killing of civilians including that of an army officer who was based at the Bulembu Camp, and all other previous killings of innocent civilians in the past.

“Government also warns against speculations and insinuations peddled particularly on social media platforms in instances like these. Again, government distinctly disassociates herself and the country’s authorities from these heinous acts. Such speculations are dangerous as they hamper investigations and take the attention away from the real criminal,” he said.

Furthermore, Nxumalo urged the entire Eswatini nation to be with the Maseko family in prayer during this difficult period.