Push for probe into alleged corruption at EMCU
The motion sets out several key resolutions for the Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg who also serves as chairperson of the Standing Committee on Public Enterprises (SCOPE)
By Kwanele Dhladhla
The House of Assembly is set for a heated debate after Nhlambeni Member of Parliament (MP) Manzi Zwane tabled a motion calling for an urgent investigation into allegations of financial embezzlement, corruption, and governance irregularities at Eswatini Christian Medical University (EMCU).
The motion, seconded by Khubuta MP Masiphula Mamba, seeks the immediate establishment of a special investigative committee of seven Members of Parliament, with gender balance, to probe mounting concerns around the institution’s management.
Zwane said the committee’s mandate would cover a broad range of issues, including the alleged suspension and misuse of the university’s provident fund, irregular vehicle acquisitions, preferential incentives, governance gaps, and questionable contract renewals for top executives.
“Parliament cannot remain silent while an institution of higher learning tasked with shaping the future of our young people is plagued by serious allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and abuse of authority.
This House has a duty to intervene, restore accountability, and protect the public interest,” Zwane said.
The proposed inquiry will also examine possible conflicts of interest involving senior government officials, including the Minister of Education and Training, Owen Nxumalo, the Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Education, Nanikie Mnisi, and the EMCU Bursar.
Concerns have been raised that the absence of a functioning University Council left key decisions unchecked, enabling questionable practices to flourish.
Among the specific issues flagged was the alleged irregular renewal of contracts for top executives in 2024 despite the inactivity of the University Council.
MPs have also questioned the adequacy of internal financial controls within the Bursar’s office, pointing to gaps that may have enabled misappropriation of funds.
The motion further mandates the committee to deliver a comprehensive report with findings and recommendations within 14 calendar days of appointment.
MPs argue that the urgency of the matter requires swift intervention to safeguard public confidence in the country’s higher education sector.
Khubuta MP Mamba, in supporting the motion, stressed that corruption allegations at EMCU not only tarnish the credibility of the institution but also threaten the welfare of staff and students.
“This is not just about financial mismanagement; it is about protecting the integrity of education in Eswatini. We cannot allow a culture of impunity to continue unchecked,” he said.
The debate comes amid growing calls from the public for accountability in parastatals, universities, and other state-linked institutions.
If approved, the parliamentary committee will have sweeping powers to summon witnesses, scrutinize records, and recommend corrective action.
All eyes will now turn to Parliament as the nation awaits whether legislators will rally behind the motion to root out corruption at EMCU.