```html Eswatini Accepts US Deportees Despite Legal Challenge

Eswatini has accepted a second group of deportees from the United States, despite ongoing legal challenges from human rights groups in the southern African nation. Ten individuals arrived in Eswatini as part of an agreement between the two countries, prompting renewed criticism from local activists who argue the deal lacks transparency and circumvents parliamentary oversight.

Legal Action and Human Rights Concerns

The arrival of the deportees comes just before a scheduled court hearing in Mbabane, where civil society organizations are challenging the legality of the agreement. Mzwandile Masuku, a human rights lawyer representing these groups, expressed his dismay to the BBC, stating he was "shocked and dismayed" that the government proceeded with accepting the deportees while the court case remains unresolved. He believes the government should "respect the court process and await its ruling."

The Southern African Litigation Centre (SALC), along with other civic groups, contends that the agreement constitutes "executive over-reach." They argue that Eswatini's constitution requires parliamentary consent for such international agreements, which was not obtained in this instance. Melusi Simelane of the SALC previously told the BBC that the deal reflects "democratic regression," particularly considering Eswatini's constitutional reforms aimed at increasing parliamentary input.

Details of the Agreement

In September, Human Rights Watch (HRW) revealed details of the agreement, stating that it allows for Eswatini to accept up to 160 deportees in exchange for $5.1 million from the US. The funds are earmarked for enhancing Eswatini's "border and migration management capacity." The Eswatini government has defended the agreement, asserting that it acted within its constitutional powers, which allow for such deals with foreign governments.

While the government had initially stated that 11 deportees would arrive, only 10 were ultimately deported. The government has not provided an explanation for the discrepancy. The names of the deportees have also not been released to the public.

Context and Regional Implications

This agreement highlights the ongoing debate surrounding US deportation policies, particularly regarding African nations. The previous deportations in July sparked protests outside the US embassy in Eswatini, with activists denouncing the deal as secretive and undemocratic.

The situation has also raised concerns in neighboring South Africa. Officials there expressed fears that deportees could potentially cross into South Africa through the countries' porous border. Eswatini government acting spokesperson Thabile Mdluli attempted to address these concerns, assuring the public that the deportees are being held in a "secured area separate from the public" while arrangements are made for their eventual return to their countries of origin.

Expert Analysis

Dr. Sithembile Mbete, a senior lecturer in the Department of Political Studies at the University of Pretoria, notes that this agreement underscores the power dynamics between wealthier nations like the US and smaller, developing countries. "Agreements like this often reflect a situation where smaller nations may feel pressured to accept terms that are not entirely in their best interest due to economic considerations," Dr. Mbete explains. "The promise of financial assistance can be a powerful incentive, even if it comes at the cost of potentially compromising national sovereignty or raising human rights concerns."

Moreover, legal scholar Professor John Nakuta from the University of Namibia’s Faculty of Law, emphasizes the importance of adhering to constitutional principles and international law in such agreements. "It is crucial that governments ensure transparency and accountability when entering into agreements that impact the rights and well-being of individuals," he states. "Failure to do so can undermine public trust and erode the rule of law." He further adds that the government must provide a clear legal basis for its actions and ensure that the rights of the deportees are protected throughout the process. Specifically, are the deportees able to access due legal processes?

Eswatini, ruled by King Mswati III since 1986, is a small, landlocked country surrounded by South Africa and Mozambique. The controversy surrounding the deportation agreement underscores the ongoing tensions between traditional governance structures and calls for greater democratic accountability within the kingdom. ```