Masuku refusing to seek bail

2008-11-19 22:30

Mbabane - Swaziland opposition leader Mario Masuku, who was arrested last weekend on terrorism charges, has decided not to seek bail for his release from prison, a senior party official said on Wednesday.

Masuku, leader of the People's United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), was charged on Monday with terrorism and remanded in police custody.

But he has decided not to apply for bail, regardless of how long his trial lasts, the party's secretary general S'phasha Dlamini said.

"We want to also put the government on the spot because they have been saying there were no political prisoners. So, we want the world to see how repressive this government is," she said.

Masuku's terrorism case is due to come up on November 24 at the High Court of Swaziland. If convicted, he could face life in prison.

Swaziland is Africa's last absolute monarchy and political organisations here have been banned since 1973.

King Mswati III, who ascended the throne at age 18, has the power to appoint the prime minister, the legislature and the judiciary.

- AFP