Civil Servants push back against PSPF–ENPF conversion bill
By Delisa Magagula
Civil servants have voiced strong opposition to the proposed conversion of the Public Service Pensions Fund (PSPF) into the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF), raising concerns over fairness, financial security, and the future of their benefits.
The opposition came during the PSPF Stakeholder Forum Engagement, where the fund presented its financial results, reporting a surplus of E3 billion.
The debate highlighted tensions between government’s legislative direction and the civil servants who contribute to the fund.
The strongest opposition came from the teaching sector. The Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT), led by President Mbongwa Dlamini, categorically rejected the proposed bill, insisting that teachers are satisfied with PSPF’s current structure and benefits.
“We are fine where we are. We are happy with PSPF and the benefits we receive. We cannot move to ENPF,” Dlamini said.
He stressed that even though the lump sum benefits under ENPF have increased, civil servants would not be better off after the conversion. Teachers argued that moving to ENPF would disadvantage them in the long term.
Other teacher representatives echoed the same sentiments, warning that the bill may serve as a liquidation plan in disguise.
They emphasized that civil servants trust PSPF’s current system and fear that the conversion could jeopardize their financial security.
Beyond the teachers, many stakeholders expressed deep unease about the conversion, questioning whether PSPF would be fairly treated if absorbed into ENPF.
Some participants argued that the merger could lead to mismanagement of funds, with one stakeholder remarking that they did not want money to be disturbed.
Consensus from the floor was that if the bill goes forward, it must not touch PSPF’s structure and benefits. Stakeholders demanded clarity and protection for civil servants’ contributions, stating they will resist any conversion that risks unfair treatment.