Mbabane – Eswatini Sexual and Gender Minorities (ESGM) has condemned remarks made against the LGBTIQ+ community during the recent Easter service by His Majesty King Mswati III. The group described the comments as harmful and deeply disappointing, saying they target an already vulnerable minority at a time when the country should be advancing dignity and equality for all.
ESGM warned that such statements contribute to a growing climate of hostility and discrimination in Eswatini. They pointed to a previous government minister’s remarks barring children of same-sex couples from attending school, which reportedly led to the expulsion of six girls. “The impact of such reckless and discriminatory messaging has already been felt,” ESGM said, calling it a grave violation of children’s rights.
The organisation stressed that access to education is a fundamental right, and no child should face exclusion due to family structure or perceived identity. They noted that the King’s words carry even greater influence and could worsen stigma, hostility, and violence against sexual and gender minorities. 
ESGM also criticised the lack of understanding among leaders regarding SOGIESC issues, which refers to sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics. “Emaswati have not been asking for special rights. They are calling for equality in the enjoyment of basic human rights already guaranteed under the Constitution,” the statement read, listing rights to health, education, freedom of assembly, expression, dignity, and equal protection under the law.
The organisation called on Eswatini’s leadership to replace fear and misinformation with dialogue, knowledge, and constitutional accountability. ESGM expressed gratitude to citizens and civil society groups who have spoken out in support of sexual and gender minorities, saying principled voices defend democracy, dignity, and justice.
