Human rights lawyers and activists have filed a lawsuit against Eswatini’s government, alleging that a secretive agreement with the Trump administration to accept U.S. deportees violates the country’s constitution. The case, initially set for a High Court hearing on August 22, 2025, was postponed to September 25 due to the government’s failure to submit response papers.

The lawsuit, led by the Eswatini Litigation Centre, challenges the legality of Eswatini accepting five convicted felons deported from the U.S. in July 2025, originating from Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Cuba, and Yemen. The plaintiffs argue the deal lacked parliamentary approval and transparency, with no disclosed terms. “We want the executive to be held accountable, we want transparency dealing with matters of state importance, and respect for the rights of all individuals who are in Eswatini regardless of who they may be,” said lead applicant and lawyer Mzwandile Masuku outside the court in Mbabane.

Eswatini’s Attorney General, Sifiso Khumalo, dismissed the case as “frivolous” in a text message, asserting it lacks legal grounding. The government, led by King Mswati III’s absolute monarchy, maintains the deportees pose no threat and the agreement stems from diplomatic ties with Washington. The five individuals are held in solitary confinement at Matsapha Correctional Complex, pending repatriation to their home countries.

Concerns have arisen over the deportees’ conditions, as no access has been granted to assess their well-being. The International Organization for Migration confirmed receiving a request from Eswatini for “post-arrival assistance” but has not clarified its involvement, stating, “We are discussing with Government of Eswatini, their request.”

The case reflects broader tensions in Eswatini, where critics argue the monarchy’s unilateral decisions undermine democratic processes, while supporters of the government’s stance highlight its sovereignty in international agreements. The lawsuit coincides with the Trump administration’s push to deport millions of immigrants to third countries, raising questions about human rights and legal oversight in such arrangements.