The United States has recently deported five individuals to Eswatini, a move that has sparked significant backlash within the small African kingdom. Political activist Mphandlana Shongwe criticized the decision, expressing concern that these "hardcore convicts" could negatively influence local inmates who still have a chance at rehabilitation. Despite public anger, Eswatini officials have stated that the deportees pose no threat to the country or its citizens.

This follows a similar case earlier in the month, where eight deportees were sent to South Sudan after a lengthy legal process that included a diversion to Djibouti. Notably, most of the deportees sent to Eswatini and South Sudan are not originally from those countries. Civil society leaders have demanded transparency about the agreements made with the US government. The deportations were made possible by a recent US Supreme Court ruling that allows the Trump administration to send migrants to third countries.

In addition to Eswatini and South Sudan, Rwanda also received one Iraqi deportee earlier this year. Reports suggest that over 20 African nations have been approached by the US for similar arrangements, though some, like Nigeria, have firmly rejected the proposals, citing their own domestic challenges.

(This video summary was created using AI. A journalist edited it before publication.)