This archive report was first published on 18 October 2021.
On October 18, 2021, the Eswatini government made the decision to shut down all schools indefinitely, amidst a deepening crisis in Africa's last absolute monarchy.
The move comes after weeks of sustained protests by school children, who have been boycotting classes to demand quality learning equipment, free education, and improved learning conditions.
Students have also joined nationwide pro-democracy protests, calling for the abolishment of the monarchical rule and the release of all political prisoners, including two parliamentarians arrested earlier in the year.
Public transport in Eswatini remained at a standstill on Sunday, with private taxi and commuter bus operators pledging to continue a transport shutdown until their demands were met.
At least 28 people have died in clashes between police and protesters, with the latest fatality reported on Wednesday.
King Mswati III, who has ruled Eswatini since 1986 and owns shares in the country's telecoms, has been criticized for living a lavish lifestyle in one of the world's poorest countries and stifling political parties.
