The Kingdom of Eswatini has once again drifted into the heart of regional diplomatic drama — this time over former Democratic Republic of Congo president–turned–international fugitive Joseph Kabila. Reports suggest he has quietly acquired Eswatini citizenship, a diplomatic passport, and, according to the more colourful rumours, a loyalty card for the King Mswati International Airport gift shop.
The Eswatini Palace reportedly brushed off the controversy with a casual remark: “Never heard of him, might be a tourist.”
Swaziland News added that when contacted for comment, royal spokesperson Percy Simelane dismissed the allegations with the serene confidence of someone who has no plans to consult the Immigration Act; or, indeed, any piece of legislation written in the last century.
According to the same outlet, Simelane went on to explain:
“Many multi-nationals apply for citizenship. Some are accepted, some refused, some appear with pre-signed forms already stamped by the King. That is the natural rhythm of governance. Or, as we call it in Eswatini, Tuesday.”
Pressed further, he insisted that the kingdom’s citizenship process is “transparent, rigorous, and entirely coincidental,” before abruptly ending the call due to what he described as “unexpected diplomatic weather” — leaving reporters unsure whether he was referring to a storm system or a political one.
Leaked Home Affairs documents appear to confirm that a diplomatic passport was indeed issued, though officials cautioned that releasing the passport number would endanger Kabila’s security, his anonymity, and; most importantly, Eswatini’s reputation for masterful plausible deniability.
An immigration insider added: “Honestly, this isn’t unusual. Last month we issued a diplomatic passport to someone who only stopped by to ask for directions to Mozambique. At this point, it’s basically a loyalty programme.”
Kabila, whose relationship with current DRC president Félix Tshisekedi has deteriorated faster than an economy-class airline meal, is believed to have sought refuge in Eswatini after being accused of maintaining ties with the M23 rebels.
And the regional drama doesn’t end there. In neighboring Uganda, President Yoweri Museveni reportedly warned that Joseph Kabila should not set foot on Ugandan soil, a statement that adds yet another twist to an already spiralling political soap opera.
The former president Joseph Kabila opened a new political party, People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), in March 2002. Recently he launched a platform, Save the DRC” on October 14, 2025.
