Unionised workers held 2-day general strike in Manzini to protest draft constitution being debated in parliament. Unions fear draft will further entrench power of monarchy. Swaziland, headed by King Mswati III, has world’s highest HIV/AIDS infection rate and is Africa’s last absolute monarchy.

Parliament opened 17 March after number of unexplained delays following October’s elections. King Mswati III forced elected speaker of House of Assembly to resign in dispute over king’s purchase of private jet. Swaziland now has world’s worst HIV infection rate, with UN saying 38.8% of adults infected.

State of emergency declared 18 February in response to AIDS crisis and widespread food shortages. UN agencies estimate 25% of population need food assistance, and 40% of adults HIV positive.

Presentation of new constitution, due 14 November, delayed for further review. Commonwealth team criticised October elections as largely devoid of meaning. King appointed friends and family to join elected members of assembly.

House of Assembly elections held 19 October. Elections marked by low voter turnout and boycott by pro- democracy groups. House only has advisory role to King Mswati III. Political parties are banned in Swaziland, and political gatherings prohibited.

King Mswati III, sub-Saharan Africa’s last absolute monarch, facing increasing opposition to his rule. Banned political party, PUDEMO, announced it would adopt more aggressive tactics to achieve political reform. Swaziland has been under state of emergency for over 30 years.