By Thokozani Mazibuko
Mbongwa Dlamini, the President of the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT), has returned to the classroom after a lengthy absence.
His reinstatement follows a ruling by Judge Zonke Magagula, which declared that Dlamini’s dismissal from Moyeni High School was unlawful.
Dlamini, who has been a vocal advocate for teachers’ rights in Eswatini, resumed his position on Monday amid a warm welcome from Moyeni High School Headteacher, Sabelo Manyatsi.
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The court ruling mandates that the government not only reinstate Dlamini but also pay him all outstanding salaries accrued since his dismissal.
Accompanying Dlamini back to his Mathematics class at Moyeni High School were SNAT General Secretary Lot Vilakati and a host of supporters who rallied behind him throughout his ordeal.
Vilakati confirmed the news to the Eswatini Daily News, stating, “We escorted him back to work as per the court order, and we are preparing to collect a written document from the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), officially allowing him back to class.”
The reinstatement is seen as a critical affirmation of the rights of teachers in Eswatini, as Dlamini’s case highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by educators regarding job security and fair treatment.
Prominent lawyer Lucky Howe represented Dlamini during the legal proceedings, which have sparked discussions in the educational community about the need for more robust protection for teaching staff.
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Following his return, Dlamini expressed gratitude to his supporters and reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of teachers across the nation.
His case has brought to light the challenges faced by educators, and his reinstatement is viewed as a hopeful turning point for teachers’ rights in Eswatini.