By Thokozani Mazibuko
After being subjected to slurs and insults from members of his constituency, Nkwene MP and Minister of Tinkhundla Sikhumbuzo Dlamini exited the constituency’s WhatsApp Group.
Dlamini opened up about his decision to exit the constituency WhatsApp group, a move that has sparked debate and reflection within the community. The Minister says he left the group after facing a series of personal insults and growing hostility but remains committed to serving all constituents through the proper channels.
In an exclusive interview with Eswatini Sunday, Minister Dlamini confirmed that he had exited the WhatsApp group and shared an audio message explaining his decision before leaving. He emphasized that while he values open communication, his main responsibility is to engage with constituents through formal platforms such as Enkhundleni.
RELATED: Govt employees’ performance to be evaluated to improve service delivery
“I report and give feedback Enkhundleni, not on WhatsApp groups,” he stated. Dlamini also encouraged residents to channel their concerns and project applications through the local council, led by Indvuna yeNkhundla. “Those raising complaints should contact the council. That’s where they can make their applications to the Rural Development Fund (RDF),” he added.
The WhatsApp group, according to sources, was created by one of the Minister’s close associates, Galajane, shortly after Dlamini’s election victory. It was meant to be a direct communication line between the newly elected MP and his constituents. Initially, the Minister was enthusiastic about staying connected with the people he represents.
“Once he was elected, he was full of excitement and wanted a direct line to us, the constituents,” shared one resident. “He ordered that the group should continue so he could keep in touch with us.”
However, the tone in the group changed over time. Community members began raising concerns about unfulfilled campaign promises and the lack of visible development projects. Some residents grew increasingly frustrated and expressed their disappointment in harsh terms, prompting the Minister’s exit.
“The youth had started using strong language, urging him to fulfil his promises from the elections. That’s when he got agitated and left the group in recent weeks,” explained a resident.
Another community member noted that while the Minister was being praised in other constituencies for handing over multimillion Emalangeni projects, the people of Nkwene felt left behind. “We saw him handing over projects in other areas but not a single one here. That’s why we kept asking him for updates.”
Despite the backlash, Minister Dlamini expressed optimism about progress in the constituency. He highlighted that several cooperatives recently had their applications approved, leading to the delivery of important agricultural equipment, including a truck and a tractor.
RELATED: ‘Public service is a marathon, not a race’
He reassured residents that he remains accountable and committed to improving the lives of all citizens in the region. “I am responsible to all constituents, not only Nkwene,” he said.
While his departure from the WhatsApp group left many residents disappointed, his comments may serve as a reminder of the importance of respectful, constructive dialogue and the need to make use of existing formal structures for communication.
As Nkwene continues to look toward development and progress, the conversation has shifted toward how best to engage leaders and maintain unity within the community. Minister Dlamini’s message could be seen as a call to strengthen traditional communication platforms while fostering mutual respect between elected officials and those they serve.
Urges emaSwati to apply for RDF funding
The Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development, who also serves as the emphasized the importance of the Rural Development Fund (RDF), established by His Majesty King Mswati III.
The Minister said that the RDF was created for all emaSwati, and it remains open for applications. He encouraged prospective applicants to seek further information from local Bucopho, stressing that “complaining will not help anyone, but following the right procedure will.”
The Minister assured citizens that the RDF treats every application fairly and equally, reaffirming the government’s commitment to equitable development.
He also announced that more projects will soon be handed over to communities, including tin Nkwene, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to enhancing rural livelihoods. EmaSwati are urged to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the RDF to foster local development.
