Eswatini’s main opposition leader Mlungisi Makhanya was poisoned in an attempted assassination, according to his party, the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), on Wednesday. This accusation drew attention to the southern African nation, which is one of the last absolute monarchies still in existence and where the government has been working for years to suppress pro-democracy protests.

PUDEMO claimed an unidentified “young boy,” allegedly working as an “agent of evil intent by Swazi government,” poisoned Makhanya in his Pretoria home early on Tuesday. The party alleged the poisoning is part of an ongoing effort to suppress opposition to King Mswati III’s regime. Alpheous Nxumalo, the spokesperson for the government of Eswatini, refuted the claims of official participation, stating that the government does not engage in activities like poisoning or killings of suspects.

PUDEMO has vowed to continue its fight for democratic reforms, calling for an independent investigation into Makhanya’s poisoning and planning further protests later this year.

The incident follows a troubling trend in Eswatini, where political dissidents have faced increasing violence and intimidation. Just last year, prominent human rights lawyer and democracy activist Thulani Maseko was murdered in his home. Despite international outrage, no credible investigation has been carried out.

PUDEMO, Eswatini’s leading pro-democracy party, remains banned from running for office but is legally allowed to exist. Even though some political parties are currently permitted to exist in Eswatini, the prohibition on political activity dates back to the 1970s and remains in place.

King Mswati III who rules over Eswatini’s 1.2 million citizens, maintains control over all branches of government. The king retains significant control, appointing the prime minister, most upper house members, and some lower house members, with the power to veto or enact laws unilaterally. Human rights organisations have denounced his administration, claiming it leaves no room for opposition and accusing security agents of ruthlessly suppressing activists for democracy.