‘MTN takes urgent legal action to end internet shutdown in Eswatini’ 5 July 2021

MTN GROUP said on Friday that it had taken legal action to end the shutdown of the internet in Eswatini. MTN confirmed that MTN Eswatini had been cited as one of several respondents in an urgent court application in Eswatini, which sought, among other measures, the immediate restoration of internet services in the country. The Eswatini Communications Commission issued a directive to MTN Eswatini and other operators to cease access to social media and online platforms until further notice.

The group said it was committed to respecting human rights and endeavours to protect the rights of all people who use our services in the jurisdictions in which we operate in accordance with globally defined standards. “Our approach to digital human rights is underpinned by a sound policy and due diligence framework and is managed through multidisciplinary teams across our markets,” MTN said. Tensions were high in Eswatini amid days of prodemocracy protests. Africa’s biggest food retailer, Shoprite, said the current protest action in Eswatini had forced the closure of several of its supermarkets with severe damage to both stores and delivery vehicles.

…“The damage to property that has occurred does not only affect livelihoods but also further puts the kingdom’s efforts to mitigate and minimise the economic challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic in jeopardy. The property and infrastructure that has been destroyed is the bedrock of any thriving and sustainable economy. We continue to appeal for people to refrain from looting and damaging infrastructure,” Masuku said. He also said the issues that were being raised had been received and are getting the necessary attention with the seriousness they deserve, and it did not warrant the actions that are currently taking place.