Eswatini High Court Dismisses Deportation Agreement Challenge

The high court of Eswatini dismissed a case challenging the government's secretive deal with the U.S. to accept third-party deportees. The court ruled applicants lacked direct interest or legal standing. The case raises concerns over constitutional bypassing and judicial independence in the absolute monarchy.

Eswatini's high court has dismissed a lawsuit challenging a government agreement with the United States to accept deportees from third countries. The case, spearheaded by human rights lawyers and activists, questioned the legality and transparency of the agreement.

The Eswatini Litigation Centre argued the deal violated constitutional processes, as it wasn't presented to parliament for approval. The court ruled that the applicants lacked a direct legal interest, dismissing the case on those grounds.

The situation sheds light on issues of constitutional compliance and judicial independence under King Mswati III, with critics expressing concerns about potential executive interference in the judiciary.

(With inputs from agencies.)