PM calls for strengthened professionalism and discipline within REPS

By Thokozani Mazibuko

Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has called for strengthened professionalism and discipline within the ranks of the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), as government moves forward with implementing the new Police Service Regulations derived from the Police Service Act No. 22 of 2018.

Dlamini was speaking during the official opening of a parliamentary workshop held on Monday at The George Hotel, Manzini.

The workshop brought together Members of Parliament and senior police officials to deliberate on the proposed regulations, which cover a wide range of issues governing the conduct and welfare of officers within the police service.

“The regulations that we are here about today stem from the Police Service Act Number 22 of 2018,” the Prime Minister said.

“They touch on critical areas such as preliminary provisions, conduct, appointment, probation, promotion, acting ranks and seniority, retirement and resignation.

They also outline discipline and the various schedules that will guide the service going forward.”

Police Welfare and Representation

A key highlight of the new regulations is the formal introduction of the Royal Eswatini Police Service Staff Association, established under Part 5 of the Act.

The association is designed to give police officers a structured platform to raise concerns about their welfare, terms, and conditions of service.

“This initiative ensures that police officers have representation within government negotiation structures,” Dlamini explained. “Through it, they will be able to engage meaningfully on issues such as remuneration, allowances, and other aspects of their service.”

The Prime Minister emphasized that empowering police officers to have a voice in their welfare discussions will not only improve morale but also strengthen the overall performance of the service.

Discipline: The Cornerstone of Policing

Dlamini underscored that Part 6 of the regulations focuses on discipline a fundamental element of effective policing. “Discipline is the cornerstone of any effective law enforcement agency,” he said.

“A disciplined police service is essential for building public trust and ensuring high standards of service delivery.”

He added that maintaining discipline within the force is not only about enforcing rules but also about upholding integrity, accountability, and professionalism in every aspect of policing.

Appreciation to Parliament

In his closing remarks, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the Parliament administration for facilitating the workshop and urged members to engage constructively in refining the regulations.

“Your input and deliberations will be critical as we move forward with this process,” he said. “These regulations are not just administrative instruments they are the foundation of a modern, ethical, and effective police service.

The workshop forms part of government’s ongoing efforts to modernize Eswatini’s security sector, align it with international policing standards, and ensure that officers’ welfare and accountability structures remain at the center of law enforcement.

The Royal Eswatini Police Service Act of 2018 aims to professionalize policing, improve internal governance, and strengthen community confidence in law enforcement operations across the kingdom.