BY DELISA THWALA
MBABANE– The United States of America (USA) Embassy in Eswatini has described the passing of human rights lawyer Thulani Masuku as profoundly saddening.
The embassy relayed their heartfelt condolences through their social media platforms namely, Facebook.
They stated that the country and the world have lost a powerful voice for nonviolence and human rights.
In a statement, the Embassy condoled Maseko’s family, friends, and admirers around the world.
Maseko was an alumnus of the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship where he studied at American University – Washington College of Law from 2010 – 2011.
“It was with profound sadness we learned of the tragic death of Thulani Rudolf Maseko, a renowned human rights lawyer, Multi-Stakeholder Forum Chairman, and champion of social justice.
“Mr. Maseko was an alumnus of the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship where he studied at American University – Washington College of Law in 2010-2011 and focused on the U.S. Bill of Rights and mechanisms used by the U.S. Supreme Court to interpret and uphold fundamental human rights and freedoms. We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Maseko’s family, friends, and admirers around the world (sic),” read the statement in part.
Meanwhile, the Roman Catholic Church also relayed a message of hope and prayer for the Maseko family. Father Ntshangase, who was leading the Catholic mass yesterday, said the country needed to pray more for peace.
“We have all learned with great sadness the bad news that befell the Maseko family, we are praying for peace and comfort,” he said.
The country has been reeling in shock since yesterday, and messages of condolences have been streaming in for Maseko, who was murdered outside his home in Mbabane, Eswatini, on Saturday night.
According to the Eswatini Government, Maseko was shot by unknown criminals. The government condemned the killing of civilians, including the recent murder of an army officer at Bulembu camp.
“Government also wants to warn against speculations and insinuations, peddled particularly on social media platforms in instances like these. Again, government distinctively disassociate and the country’s authorities from these heinous acts,” said Government’s Spokesperson Alpheus Nxumalo.
