High Treason Charge Added Against Thabo Kunene and Six Co-Accused

The prosecution of the 2021 unrest suspects took a dramatic turn yesterday when seven men, including self-proclaimed ‘Commander’ Thabo Kunene, had another charge of high treason added to the long list of offences they are already facing.

The amended indictment, presented before the High Court by Acting Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Lomvula Hlophe, alleges that the accused plotted to overthrow His Majesty the King and the Government of Eswatini between 2021 and 2023.

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The suspects – Kunene, Sibusiso Nkomonye, Muzi Mnisi, Sibusiso Nxumalo, Percy Machoco Sithole, and Xolani Simelane – are now jointly facing 78 counts in total, including the most serious offence under Eswatini law.

According to the Crown, the men unlawfully conspired to subvert the constitutional order through secret meetings, procurement of arms, and violent attacks.

The indictment states that the accused, “being citizens of and owing allegiance to the king, unlawfully, wrongfully, and with intent to overthrow, subvert, and destroy the authority of His Majesty the King and the Government, did commit acts of high treason.”

Alleged conspiracy and threats

Between June 2021 and June 2, 2023, the Crown alleges that the accused:

• Held secret meetings to plan the overthrow of the Monarchy.

• Procured and distributed arms and explosives for insurrection.

• Incited others to take up arms against the King and Government.

• Communicated with or sought help from hostile external organisations.

• Carried out violent acts outlined in counts 2–68 of the indictment.

The Crown highlighted public threats made by Kunene, who declared himself leader of the solidarity forces.

On July 25, 2022, he allegedly announced the start of “terrorist activities” across Eswatini and threatened bloodshed if his demands were ignored.

He is also accused of directing threats at the UEDF, REPS, and HMCS, warning them to step aside for his “ground forces.”

Judges, ministers, MPs among targets

The indictment further alleges that Kunene:

• Issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Speaker of Parliament, threatening to harm MPs’ families if a petition was not tabled.

• Threatened judges, magistrates, and prosecutors, including Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala and Judge Mumcy Dlamini.

• Threatened to damage the vehicle of Moi Moi Masilela.

• Ordered the cancellation of national events such as the Trade Fair, Umhlanga, Lusekwane, and Incwala until a new government was installed.

• Threatened to kill maidens at Umhlanga, particularly those from families of armed forces.

• Warned of bloodshed at royal residences, and against regiments at Incwala and Lusekwane.

The Crown argues that these actions demonstrate the accused’s intent to overthrow the Monarchy and constitutional order.