Turning Victimization and Intimidation into a Rallying Point for Workers’ Unity: Workers’ Unity in the Face of Oppression.

On September 24, 2025, Comrade Mbongwa Dlamini, President of the Swaziland National Teachers’ Union (SNAT), delivered a presentation that addressed the critical challenges facing workers in Swaziland. The session, held via Zoom, focused on the themes of victimization and intimidation as pervasive tactics used against workers advocating for their rights.

Comrade Mbongwa articulated the harsh realities that workers in Swaziland endure, particularly the regime’s increasing reliance on force and arbitrary arrests to stifle peaceful protests. The oppressive measures employed by the government serve to undermine the fundamental rights of workers and silence dissent. In this environment, the call for unity among workers is not merely a rallying cry but a strategic necessity. The working class must recognize that their struggle transcends individual grievances; it is a collective fight against an oppressive system that seeks to maintain the status quo.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the Industrial Relations Act of Swaziland, which, while allowing for strike actions, simultaneously empowers the government to interdict these strikes through the courts. This legal framework effectively favors employers, creating an uphill battle for workers seeking to assert their rights. The implications of such laws are profound, as they not only restrict the ability of workers to organize but also reinforce the power dynamics that prioritize capital over labor. It is essential for workers to challenge these unjust laws and advocate for a legal system that genuinely protects their rights.

The presentation also highlighted alarming instances of police brutality and harassment faced by union leaders and protesters. These incidents are not isolated but indicative of a broader strategy to suppress worker dissent. The collusion between the government and private sector employers further complicates the landscape, as it creates an environment where workers’ rights are routinely violated. By addressing these issues collectively, workers can build solidarity and resilience in the face of such oppression.

In response to the challenges outlined, Comrade Mbongwa proposed several strategies aimed at empowering workers and fostering solidarity. One of the key recommendations was to create platforms for workers to share their experiences of victimization. This sharing of narratives can help build a collective consciousness and strengthen the bonds of solidarity among workers. Organizing collective action is another crucial strategy; by coming together, workers can challenge the oppressive systems that seek to divide them.

Moreover, effective mobilization through workplace campaigns and training sessions can enhance workers’ understanding of their rights and the importance of unity. Building resilience among workers is also essential, particularly in the face of ongoing intimidation. Support groups and mental health initiatives can play a vital role in helping workers cope with the stress and anxiety stemming from their struggles. Finally, raising awareness about the universal nature of worker exploitation is critical. Workers across various sectors must recognize their shared struggles and unite in their fight for justice.

Comrade Mbongwa Dlamini’s presentation serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by workers in Swaziland. By turning victimization and intimidation into a rallying point for unity, the working class can confront the tinkhundla systems that seek to undermine their rights.

From a communist perspective, the struggle for labor rights is inextricably linked to the broader fight for social justice and equality. It is only through solidarity and collective action that workers can hope to dismantle the structures of Mswati’s parasitic regime and achieve a just society. The path forward is clear: unite, organize, and fight for a better future. The time for action is now, and the strength of the working class lies in its unity.

CPS Press Services

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