What does the killing of Eswatini’s pro-democracy leader mean for the country?

In January prominent human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko was shot dead in front of his family at their home in Eswatini. He was a fierce critic of King Mswati III and had travelled worldwide to advocate for democracy in his country. Shortly after his brutal killing, rumours began spreading that he was murdered allegedly by King Mswati’s regime. But Eswatini’s authorities have told Africa Daily, they had no reason to harm him or any other activist. They say they have now launched an investigation. Some fear his killing might spark fresh violence. In 2021, the country descended into chaos when anti-monarchy protesters took to the streets. At least 37 people died in the mayhem. Africa Daily's Mpho Lakaje has been looking at what the death Thulani Maseko could mean for Eswatini.