‘I will still write without fear or favour’
“I will go back and continue to write without fear or favour… Not because I am a hero, but because that is the right thing to do.”
These were the words of Bheki Makhubu, editor of The Nation magazine in Swaziland, following his recent release from prison.
On Thursday night Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR) welcomed back the recently released Swazi human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko and Makhubu during a function held at LHR’s Pretoria office.
The pair were charged and convicted of contempt of court in March last year after they criticised the judiciary of Swaziland and then chief justice Michael Ramodibedi in two articles published in The Nation.
They were sentenced to two years in prison without the option of a fine. They spent 15 months in jail before they were vindicated on appeal.
They were freed on June 30.
Makhubu told the Pretoria News he did not fear for his life and would continue to write the truth.
“I don’t create facts or force facts, but if something is wrong, I will not look back.
“I will also not look over my shoulder. I will continue to write without fear or favour.”
Makhubu said he is not seeking revenge, but he will definitely sue the Swazi government for compensation.
Makhubu said he is happy with being freed and reunited with his family.” I am happy we have been vindicated. This was an embarrassment for the Swazi government.”
They pair were termed prisoners of conscience by Amnesty International and their frivolous charges seen as a bid to curtail freedom of speech in Swaziland.
Ironically, Ramodibedi was removed as chief justice by Swazi King Mswati on June 17, following his recent arrest. Former judge Mphendulo Simelane, who was appointed by the former chief justice to preside over the pair’s criminal trial, was also arrested.
This was after Ramodibedi appointed Simelane to preside over a case in which he was suing the Swaziland Revenue Service. The anti-corruption commission issued warrants for their arrest after Simelane ruled in Ramodibedi’s favour.