Government Structure
Government Type
Absolute Monarchy
Current Ruler
King Mswati III (since 1986)
Independence
September 6, 1968
Constitution
2005 Constitution
Governance Framework
Executive Branch
King: Head of State and Government
Prime Minister: Appointed by the King
Cabinet: Appointed by the King
Legislative Branch
Parliament: Bicameral system
House of Assembly: 65 members
Senate: 30 members
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court: Highest court
High Court: Constitutional matters
Magistrate Courts: Lower courts
Political Insights
Absolute Monarchy
Eswatini is one of the world's last absolute monarchies, where the King holds significant executive, legislative, and judicial powers. This system has been in place since independence in 1968.
Constitutional Framework
The 2005 Constitution provides some framework for governance but maintains the King's central role in the political system. Political parties are banned, and the King appoints key officials.
Traditional Authority
The political system incorporates traditional Swazi authority structures, with chiefs playing important roles in local governance and the selection of some parliamentary representatives.
Key Political Milestones
Independence
Eswatini gains independence from Britain on September 6, 1968, under King Sobhuza II.
King Mswati III
King Mswati III ascends to the throne at age 18, becoming one of the world's youngest monarchs.
New Constitution
The 2005 Constitution is adopted, providing some framework while maintaining the absolute monarchy system.