MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES
The front-page photo portrays a line of Venezuelan people crossing the border to Colombia via a trocha or muddy footpath that cuts across the scrubland covering the banks of the Tachira River, which forms the border between Venezuela and Colombia.
The photo represents the ordeal of so many millions of people who have to leave their countries because of war, violence, persecution, climate conditions or extreme poverty. A sympathetic welcoming attitude supports the possibility of starting a new life in a new home.
RADAR • ESWATINI
Prominent Human Rights Lawyer Killed In ‘Cold Blood’
BY UN STAFF MEMBER
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk has condemned the ‘cold-blooded killing’ of leading Eswatini human rights lawyer, Thulani Maseko, a pro-democracy activist shot dead in his home in the city of Mbabane on 21 January 2022
Stalwart of human rights
“Thulani Maseko was a stalwart of human rights who, at great risk to himself, spoke up for many who couldn’t speak up for themselves,” Türk said.
“His cold-blooded killing has deprived Eswatini, southern Africa and the world of a true champion and advocate for peace, democracy and human rights.”
The UN rights chief extended his condolences to Mr Maseko’s family, friends, and colleagues. “I call on the authorities in the Kingdom of Eswatini to ensure that a prompt, independent, impartial and effective investigation is conducted into his killing, in accordance with Eswatini’s constitution and international human rights law, and to hold all those responsible to account in fair trials. The Eswatini authorities must also ensure the safety and security of all Eswatini people, including human rights defenders, journalists and political activists, and to protect civic space,” Türk said.
Advocate for transition
Mr Maseko was the chairperson of the Multi- Stakeholder Forum, an umbrella association of civil society organisations, businesses and trade unions, political parties, as well as faith-based and women’s organizations.
The group advocates for a peaceful transition to multi-party democracy in Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland.
At the time of his death, Mr Maseko was a legal representative for two members of parliament facing trial for offences allegedly committed during civil unrest that occurred in 2021.
In 2015, after a year in detention for allegedly criticizing the judicial system he was acquitted and released on appeal.
A CHAMPION OF FAITH
The life of the Comboni missionary, Blessed Giuseppe Ambrosoli, is an inspiring example of tireless dedication to the spiritual and physical healing of the peoples of Uganda, following in the steps of love shown by his founder, St Daniel Comboni
A defining moment for the Catholic Church
Pope Francis’ planned visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and South Sudan in February 2023 intends to be a dialogue with African Catholics and to listen to political leaders and the youth.
Undocumented children do have the right to basic
A new school year has started in South Africa. Thousands of learners commenced their schooling and others returned in continued pursuit of their dreams. This glorious event should be celebrated. Unfortunately, circumstances arise where the right to basic education is undermined and learners run the risk of being denied to it. For example, Gayton McKenzie, mayor of the Central Karoo District and president of the Patriotic Alliance, has repeatedly expressed on Twitter that undocumented children “should not be allowed at all in schools in South Africa”.