In the most recent urgent action letter, the Thompson Rivers University Students’ Union wrote to Honourable HRH Prince Simelane, Minister of Justice & Constitutional Affairs of Eswatini, urging him to end police and official intimidation against 70-year-old Phumzile Dlamini, protect her from retaliation, and ensure that any relocation affecting her and her community complies with international human rights standards.
“Writing this letter reminded me how important it is that people are able to stand up for their homes and communities without being pressured or intimidated,” said William C. Simpson, Equity Committee Member at large.
Phumzile Dlamini lives in the village of Mhlambanyatsi, where Montigny Investments has sought to relocate residents to expand its forestry plantations. Dlamini has repeatedly refused to sign documents presented as a “voluntary relocation” agreement. On May 21, 2026, police officers visited her home and urged her to sign the documents, despite her continued refusal. Other households in nearby communities have also faced pressure to relocate as the company expands its plantations.
International human rights law prohibits forced evictions and requires relocations to be genuinely voluntary and based on free and informed consent, or to follow strict legal safeguards. The involvement of police in pressuring Dlamini to sign raises serious concerns about whether consent can truly be considered voluntary. Any relocation must also include meaningful consultation, adequate notice and compensation, and protections against homelessness and other human rights violations.
“No one should have to choose between giving up their home and facing continued pressure from the authorities,” said Simpson “People deserve to have their decisions respected and their rights protected, especially when those decisions affect their homes, livelihoods, and communities.”
TRUSU hopes that Minister Simelane will act to end the pressure and intimidation against Phumzile Dlamini, protect her from retaliation, and ensure that the rights of Dlamini and her community are respected throughout any relocation process.
For More Information
The Amnesty Urgent Actions Program allows the Union to take action regarding international human rights injustices that matter to students. Click this link to see injustices we have addressed previously, and for further information about this issue or to see a copy of the letter, contact the Equity Coordinator below.