A growing standoff has emerged in Eswatini after authorities banned a planned International Workers Day celebration organised by the Trade Union Congress of Swaziland, triggering legal challenges and renewed criticism from labour leaders.
The union confirmed that the government prohibited the event scheduled to take place at Hlathikhulu Central High School sports ground, advising workers to remain at home or observe the day in smaller local gatherings. Authorities cited public safety concerns as justification for the restriction.
According to TUCOSWA Acting Secretary General, Winile A Mlotsa, the union had followed due process by notifying relevant authorities more than 20 days in advance, exceeding the minimum requirement under the Public Order Act. The notifications were submitted to both local administrative bos and regional offices.
However, the dispute escalated after the Regional Administrator blocked the event, arguing that jurisdiction over the venue fell under a local traditional leader. The labour federation rejected this claim, insisting that legal authority rests with the regional administration and not customary structures.
A legal attempt to overturn the ban was dismissed by the Shiselweni Magistrate Court on April 30, with the court citing procedural shortcomings, including failure to join the local chief as a party to the case.
Despite the setback, TUCOSWA said it is seeking further legal advice and considering engagement with international labour and human rights bos, describing the ban as an infringement on workers’ rights to assembly and expression.
The federation maintained that the May Day celebration remains prohibited, but stressed that consultations and next steps are ongoing. The situation has intensified debate in Eswatini over labour rights, governance authority, and the balance between public order and freedom of association.
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