This archive report was first published on 29 June 2021.
On June 29, 2021, the eSwatini government denied reports that King Mswati III had fled the country following violent, pro-democracy protests.
Acting Prime Minister Themba Masuku told a virtual press conference that the King, Africa's last total monarch, was in the country and continuing to lead efforts to advance the Kingdom's goals.
However, King Mswati III was not present at the briefing, fueling speculation about his whereabouts.
Claims of the King's fleeing were first reported by South Africa's national Broadcaster SABC and picked up by various international media.
The Swaziland Solidarity Network, a pro-democracy lobby, alleged that the King had left the country amid the chaos, stating that he had
