Swaziland – not ideal

King Mswati IIIThe Economist has this short article on what a circus Swaziland is. The tiny country (population 1m) that we hardly ever even notice is badly run by King Mswati III who wields absolute power.

Here are some facts from the article:

  • All political parties are banned in Swaziland
  • The leader of the opposition (People’s United Democratic Movement) is behind bars
  • Most of the country is dirt poor and ravaged by AIDS but the King and his family live a fabulously lavish lifestyle

The place is an absolute dog show, but you won’t hear a peep of criticism from our leaders.

Stones in glass houses perhaps?