by Ncaba Ntshakala
History has been written! Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini became the first Premier to grace the Workers Day celebration at the Prince of Wales Sports Ground, which is a significant milestone in the nation’s labour history.
Accompanied by the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Phila Buthelezi, and the Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, the Prime Minister attended the May Day festivities organized by the Trade Union Congress of Eswatini (TUCOSWA) in Mbabane, responding to their invitation.
However, what was anticipated to be a momentous occasion turned tumultuous as the Prime Minister faced unexpected disruptions during the event.
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Despite his presence, Dlamini did not get the opportunity to deliver his message to the gathered workers as the atmosphere became charged with political chants and the sound system was deliberately interrupted.
Undeterred by the unexpected turn of events, Prime Minister Dlamini arrived on time to listen to the statements delivered by representatives of various workers’ organizations.
Despite the hostile and aggressive tone of some attendees, he remained attentive and engaged, demonstrating a devotion to hearing the concerns and requests voiced by workers.
“We did, however, arrive on time to listen to the statements delivered by the worker’s organisations, even though the level of engagement demonstrated was rather hostile and aggressive,” said the Prime Minister in a statement issued after the disruptions.
“Nonetheless, we did hear the contributions and requests from workers, which the Government notes and will take forward.
As we were witnessing the event, the Government also realised the need, going forward, to capacitate the leadership of unions.”
EmaSwati commend Premier for historic May Day appearance, praise gesture towards harmony
Across social media platforms, emaSwati have expressed their appreciation for Prime Minister Russell Dlamini’s impeccable attendance at the May Day celebrations, lauding the gesture as a historic step towards strengthening harmony between the government and workers in Eswatini.
On platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, emaSwati have commended the Prime Minister for his presence at the event, where they emphasised the significance of his participation in bridging the gap between government and labour unions.
Zikalala Sifiso, commenting on the Prime Minister’s Facebook page, expressed gratitude, stating, “Thank you Mr. PM moving forward I think this day must be organised for workers, not political parties.”
The sentiment echoed by Sifiso reflects a common sentiment among emaSwati, who believe that May Day should prioritize the celebration and recognition of workers’ contributions, rather than being politicized.
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Similarly, Tumisho Maymbo conveyed appreciation for the Prime Minister’s attendance, stating, “Thank you, Your Excellency, for honouring the workers’ invitation!
The rabble-rousers do not necessarily represent all the workers of eSwatini and should therefore not deter you from attending in future (if invited by workers)!”
Maymbo’s comment highlights the distinction between genuine workers’ concerns and political agendas, urging for a focus on the former during May Day celebrations.
Mthunzi Ndumiso Dlamini echoed sentiments of appreciation, acknowledging the Prime Minister’s efforts to engage with workers despite the disruptions at the event.
Dlamini stated, “Thank you Rt Hon. PM for honouring that worker’s invite, it shows that your government is willing to hear the workers’ issues, however, you didn’t make that address, you did your part to be in that venue.”
Govt expresses willingness to engage with Trade Unions
Following the conclusion of the May Day celebrations, Prime Minister Russell Dlamini has made emphasis on His Majesty’s Government’s commitment to engaging with trade unions, despite challenges encountered during the event.
The Premier acknowledged that while the government extended its hands to meaningful dialogue with labour unions on their important day, it appeared that union members were not yet ready to engage with the government.
Despite the apparent reluctance from some union members to get engaged, the Prime Minister emphasized that the government remains eager to foster constructive dialogue and collaboration with the labour unions.
