Eswatini quickly embraced Trump's deportee program despite doubts over legality
Eswatini has quickly accepted a program to host deported migrants from the U.S., despite concerns over its legality. The agreement, which has led to the detention of 19 migrants, has sparked public protests and legal challenges. Activists argue that the deal violates the country's constitution and bypasses parliamentary approval.
- ▪Eswatini was one of the first African nations to volunteer for the U.S. deportee program initiated by former President Donald Trump.
- ▪The agreement includes hosting up to 160 deportees in exchange for $5.1 million, despite a significant portion of the population living below the poverty line.
- ▪Legal challenges have emerged, claiming the deal violates constitutional rights by detaining individuals without charge and denying them access to legal counsel.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Eswatini quickly embraced Trump's deportee program despite doubts over legalitySign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxProtesters hold placards as lead applicant and lawyer Mzwandile Masuku addresses them outside the court, after today's hearing was postponed, in Mbabane, Eswatini, August 22, 2025. Activists are challenging a secretive agreement with former U.S. President Donald Trump's administration to accept third-country deportees, which they argue is unconstitutional. REUTERS/Zakhele MabuzaPublished May 21, 2026, 02:04 PMUpdated May 21, 2026, 02:04 PMMBABANE, May 21 - Upon learning through the U.S.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Straits Times — World.