The decision by the King of Swaziland to change the country’s name is facing a legal challenge.
A pro-democracy activist has filed a motion at a high court challenging the king’s decision.
The King of Swaziland, King Mswati III in April this year renamed the country to eSwatini during his 50th birthday celebration.
The King celebrated his birthday at the same time country was also marking its 50th anniversary since gaining independence from South Africa.
The activist, Thulani Maseko, in his petition said the king’s decision was invalid since there had been no prior public consultation.
He said the decision was whimsical and a waste of money in a country with serious developmental problems.
Swaziland gained independence from South Africa on September 6, 1968.
The current King was also born on April 19, 1968 and monarchy is governed by a constitution developed in 1975.
He took over the throne in April 1986 and has ruled for more than 31 years.
Swaziland remains one of the world’s last remaining absolute monarchies where the king rules by decree over his subjects.
Source: Africafeeds.com
