By Elezo Libanda
Eswatini, July 28 — In a daring stand against the backdrop of escalating vetting by the police and the Elections Commission (EBC), pro-democracy aspiring Members of Parliament (MPs) in Swaziland are refusing to be silenced on social media. Recent reports have suggested that these fearless nominees are steering clear of direct criticism aimed at King Mswati. However, the King’s Spokesperson, Percy Simelane, has come forward to dispel any notions of disqualification based on such criticism.
Percy Simelane boldly declared, in response to an exclusive enquiry from the renowned Swaziland News, “There is no record of any nominee being disqualified for criticizing King Mswati.” The King’s Spokesperson stressed that candidates have only been disqualified when they disregarded the rules of law or procedure.
The situation facing political activist Simo Mamba made headlines last week. Mamba, a vocal supporter of democracy, got himself into trouble when he said the stirring phrase “Amandla” when accepting a nomination at Ngevini uMphakatsi under Siphofaneni Inkhundla. Percy Simelane made it clear that Mamba’s apology was not a reason for disqualification in spite of the controversy surrounding the incident.
“We have no record of a nominee being disqualified because he or she criticized the King. In our experience, disqualification has always been a result of failure to fully comply with the dictates of the law or procedure. Journalistically and in terms of the Law of Communication, self-editing exists even when there is no danger or threat. This is what we want to believe is the case with the nominees in question,” said the King’s Spokesperson, leaving no room for ambiguity.
Curiosity arose as the Swaziland News attempted to gain insights from Mbonisi Bhembe, the Spokesperson of the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC), but as of the time of reporting, no response had been received.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the vetting process, the President of the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), Mlungisi Makhanya, had a powerful message for those daring to challenge the system from within. “As a movement, we cannot stop people from taking that route, saying they will fight from within. But we must tell them the truth; it won’t be possible to do so. A person who has been forced to apologize merely for shouting ‘Amandla,’ imagine what will happen if that person can shout ‘Mswati must fall. These people are just going there to fill up their pockets,” asserted the resolute PUDEMO President.
As the election fervor intensifies, the courage displayed by the pro-democracy nominees is captivating the nation. Swaziland stands on the precipice of change, and the outcome of these elections could redefine the nation’s destiny. Will the aspiring MPs continue to stand firm, or will the pressure of the vetting process quell their voices? Only time will tell as the nation holds its breath in anticipation. Stay tuned for more updates on this gripping political saga.
Namibia Daily News
