HISTORIC KAMHLUSHWA PRAYER FLEXES THE ORGANISATIONAL PROWERS OF SWALIMO AND POPULARITY OF GAWUZELA
At the foothills of KaMshushwa in South Africa, history was made.
SWALIMO, led by exiled former Member of Parliament Mduduzi “Gawuzela” Simelane, hosted what many are calling the largest political gathering organized by an opposition party in Eswatini's history—albeit on foreign soil. The stage was set for an unforgettable show of strength and unity, and by every measure, the event delivered.
As crowds poured in, it became clear that this was no ordinary political rally. From the impeccably organized entry points to the flags and banners that adorned the venue, there was a sense of a carefully orchestrated movement in action. Every detail seemed designed to tell a story—a story of resistance, solidarity, and an unyielding desire for change.
Simelane’s flair for the theatrical was on full display from his army fatigue to his grand entrance marked by chants and cheers, his supporters waving SWALIMO flags high in the air, uniting under the symbols of hope he has come to represent.
In true “Gawuzela” fashion, the former MP emerged surrounded by tight security and wild celebrations from excited crowds fully clad in the national colors of red, blue, and yellow illuminating his path to the podium.
Security and marshaling were handled with military-like precision, a testament to the meticulous planning and execution by SWALIMO’s organizing committee. No one dared disrupt the atmosphere, where respect and discipline were palpable.
Marshals, in vibrant green and yellow vests, guided attendees and maintained order, signaling that this was a new era of organized political defiance.
Even the choreography was seamless. Gospel singers and dancers, many donning SWALIMO’s insignia, electrified the crowd with powerful performances that mixed gospel music with political chants and slogans.
The music, drums, and synchronized movements brought the crowd to its feet in chants of freedom and solidarity, a rhythmic affirmation of their shared cause. It was clear that the SWALIMO brand was not just political; it was cultural and religious, merging elements of entertainment and national pride with activism.
For days leading up to the event, rumors swirled that the Swazi government had taken measures to discourage attendance. Some claimed passports were canceled; others reported increased security at illegal border crossings to block attendees. Yet, defying these obstacles, thousands of Swazis crossed the border, bringing with them hope and a burning desire to witness this historic rally.
Despite attempts to stymie the event, international media attention poured in. News outlets and social media captured the rally from every angle, broadcasting images and footage that painted a picture of unity and resilience. Every voice amplified the call for a democratic Eswatini, adding pressure to a government that has often sought to silence dissent.
By the time Simelane took the podium, he stood before a sea of supporters who had risked everything to be there. His speech, full of fire and conviction, stirred the crowd, drawing cheers that echoed across the valley. “Today,” he declared, “we have shown the world that the spirit of the Swazi people cannot be caged.”
For SWALIMO, KaMshushwa was more than just a rally. It was a declaration of political sophistication, a coming together of parties and civil society in a show of unity that sent a powerful message. Simelane had not only hosted the biggest gathering in opposition history; he had cemented his reputation as an unparalleled organizer and a beacon of hope for those yearning for change in Eswatini.
The gathering was attended by political activists, supporters from various pro-democracy groups, and members of civil society, all rallying under one cause. Many attendees expressed hope and excitement over the event’s powerful message.
“We have not seen this kind of unity in our lifetime,” said one attendee, Thabo Maseko. “It feels like the people are finally coming together for a shared purpose, and we can feel the momentum building for real change.”
During his address, Simelane reaffirmed the commitment of SWALIMO and the broader democratic movement to fight for a new Eswatini where freedom and human rights are respected. “We are here to make it clear that we will not be silenced,” he said passionately, to resounding applause. “The people of Eswatini deserve a country where everyone’s voice matters, not just those of a privileged few.”
Simelane’s speech was received with great enthusiasm, particularly as he emphasized the role of the church in supporting the movement. In recent months, religious leaders in Eswatini have shown a renewed willingness to speak out against the political status quo.
At KaMhlushwa, leaders from various church denominations prayed for peace and justice, with one pastor stating, “It is our duty as the church to stand with the people. We cannot remain silent when our country needs us most.”
The involvement of the church was highlighted by attendees as a pivotal moment in the struggle for democracy. “The church is finally stepping up and standing with the people. This is exactly what we need to inspire and unify our efforts,” said Nontobeko Dlamini, a youth activist from Manzini.
As the rally concluded, the atmosphere was one of hope and anticipation. “We are making history today,” said an elderly woman in attendance. “Our children and grandchildren will live in a different Eswatini because of what we are doing here.”
The event stands as a milestone in the democratic movement’s journey, with the Mass Democratic Movement unified, the church now vocally supportive, and a leader like Simelane calling for change — a testament to the growing strength of those fighting for a democratic Eswatini.
If Gawuzela could draw such crowds in foreign lands one can only ask; imagine if he was inside eSwatini?