Voters have been urged to make independent choices in the upcoming by-election, amid concerns over food parcels distributed during political activities.
Senior Elections Officer Nomvula Dlamini cautioned voters to consider the circumstances surrounding the distribution of food parcels, particularly during the election period.
Dlamini said the concern was not about people receiving food parcels, but rather their alleged use to influence voters or encourage them to make particular political choices. 
She said the issue was particularly concerning when food parcels were distributed around election-related activities, including nominations, political meetings and the primary election period.
According to Dlamini, the distribution of food parcels could become problematic when they were used to attract people to political activities or influence their support for particular candidates.
The Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) reminded voters that voting is a right of every eligible citizen and person residing in Eswatini who meets the requirements to participate in elections.
Voters are entitled to choose representatives who will serve as Members of the House of Assembly or Bucopho, with Dlamini urging them to exercise this right independently.
The EBC further reminded voters that they may only vote in the chiefdom, constituency or region where they are registered.
An EBC member explained that elections for Bucopho and Members of Parliament are conducted through a secret ballot, allowing voters to make their choices privately and freely.
Votes are placed in sealed ballot boxes as part of measures to maintain a transparent and credible electoral process.
The EBC also highlighted provisions for voters living with disabilities and other citizens who require assistance. Such voters may receive assistance when casting their ballots, while the principle of secret voting must be maintained.
The voter education session also covered the nomination process for candidates seeking to become Bucopho or Members of Parliament.
According to the EBC, nominations are conducted publicly and candidates must be supported by at least 10 registered voters who are eligible to vote in the respective constituency.
Dlamini said the upcoming by-election was important as it would contribute to the opening of Parliament and allow voters to choose representatives who would serve and speak on their behalf.
She encouraged all eligible voters to participate in the election, exercise their right to vote and carefully consider the candidates they believe would best serve their communities.
Dlamini said voters should use their vote to choose representatives who would address the needs of their communities and work in the interests of the people.
