By Kwanele Dhladhla
Prime Minister (PM) Russell Dlamini’s firm stance on corruption following His Majesty King Mswati III and Sibaya’s call to end corruption has attracted the wrath of culprits such that there have been serious safety concerns which warranted immediate action.
The PM, who launched an anti-corruption task team comprising of Acting Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Lomvula Hlophe, the National Commissioner of Police (NATCOM) Manoma Masango and the Acting Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission,
Maphevu Mkhatshwa, apparently rubbed detractors the wrong way to the extent that there have been threats levelled at the premier.
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The task team was made responsible for investigating corruption allegations, prosecuting cases, implementing preventive measures, and strengthening legal frameworks to address corruption effectively.
Further, Dlamini has on various forums openly declared war on corruption and strongly emphasised that there would be no tolerance for any form of corruption both within the public and private sector.
The high-level threats to the PM and subsequent action of commencing a process to install bulletproof sliding door panels ought to have already been implemented since they were part of projects earmarked to have been undertaken during the current financial year (2024/2025).
However, implementation was reportedly delayed by the lack of authority to commit by the Ministry of Finance for procurement of bulletproof panel doors and an access control system.
In the private and cabinet office annual performance report for the 2024/2025 financial year, it was explained that “the tendering process for the bulletproof panel doors and access control system was in progress while negotiations with the ministry remain ongoing”.
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It was further reported that a high-level threat directed at the PM’s office residence posed a security threat. However, the intensification of protective security and construction of a guard house together with a wall fence at his residence was noted to be already in progress.
In terms of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Eswatini, the Prime Minister is the Chairman of the Cabinet and Leader of Government Business in Parliament.
One of the main responsibilities of Cabinet is to keep His Majesty the King Mswati III informed about the general conduct of the Government of Eswatini and furnish the King with such information as he may require.
