By Ncaba Ntshakala
Stop the misinformation!
The government of Eswatini has expressed grave concern over what it describes as a growing trend of misinformation and deliberate slander targeting the government and, in particular, Prime Minister Russell Dlamini.
In a strongly worded statement issued by Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo, these acts of defamation were attributed primarily to renegade and propagandist news entities proliferating on social media.
Nxumalo noted that this obsession with discrediting the Prime Minister has also begun infiltrating mainstream newsrooms, where the government is inundated with questionnaires stemming from baseless and malicious reports.
“The Nation has previously been warned about these smear campaigns against His Excellency, through a statement released on 8 April 2024,
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where Government described this false news as ‘an orchestrated move and evil ploy meant to divert the public’s attention from the real masterminds of corruption,'” the spokesperson reminded citizens.
The government reiterated its prior invitation to report any allegations of corruption involving the Prime Minister to the appropriate legal authorities.
Despite this open call, Nxumalo disclosed that no case has been lodged to date, further discrediting the allegations as unfounded attempts to tarnish the Prime Minister’s reputation.
Nxumalo also addressed speculation regarding discord within Cabinet, firmly denying any reports of division.
While acknowledging that differences of opinion are a natural occurrence in group settings, the spokesperson emphasized that Cabinet Ministers consistently find common ground through mutual respect for their mandate to serve the nation.
“Any reports purporting that there is division in Cabinet are devoid of any truth,” he stated.
Regarding the ongoing discussions about the Phase II salary review for junior national security officers, the spokesperson clarified that the matter is being addressed through the appropriate channels.
A consultant on salary review is actively handling the issue, and some aspects of the matter are currently before the courts.
Nxumalo urged all parties involved to focus their energies on achieving an amicable resolution through these processes rather than resorting to derogatory tactics such as name-calling.
The statement also emphasised the government’s commitment to prioritizing the interests of emaSwati, noting that changes necessary to implement Sibaya submissions would not be delayed or compromised.
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Where changes are necessary, Government will not relent to introduce them,” Nxumalo affirmed, reinforcing the government’s dedication to fulfilling its obligations to the people.
In a bigger call to action, Nxumalo cautioned emaSwati against consuming unverified and biased information, especially in the current era of rampant misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation.
He warned that the line between fact and fiction is increasingly blurred, urging emaSwati to exercise discernment and scepticism when encountering propagandist news on social media.