BY NOMTHANDAZO MAYISELA (INTERN)
MBABANE – Concerns over delayed corruption investigations, accountability and the protection of public funds dominated discussions during a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) meeting, as Members of Parliament called for stronger and more proactive measures in the fight against corruption.
The concerns were raised during discussions involving the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Auditor General’s Office, where lawmakers questioned the pace of investigations and the effectiveness of systems meant to safeguard taxpayers’ money. The discussions reflected growing public interest in how corruption cases are handled and how oversight institutions respond to financial irregularities.
Ludzeludze MP Hon. Nomkhosi Masuku questioned why some individuals linked to investigations are often suspended for long periods while cases continue without clear conclusions. She said the public frequently hears about ongoing investigations, yet rarely sees outcomes such as arrests or completed cases.
Masuku also questioned how prolonged investigations benefit the country when reports are not always clear or timely, especially in a situation where corruption continues to concern many emaSwati.
During the same discussions, Acting Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission Maphevu Mkhatjwa acknowledged the important role played by oversight institutions in addressing corruption. However, he noted that institutions such as the Auditor General’s Office are often more reactive than proactive.
“We need a way forward in fighting corruption,” he said.
The Public Accounts Committee plays an oversight role in examining the use of public funds and ensuring government institutions remain accountable. Meanwhile, the Auditor General’s Office audits public institutions to identify financial weaknesses, while the ACC is responsible for investigating corruption-related offences.
For ordinary citizens, corruption discussions extend beyond politics and directly affect service delivery, development projects and public trust in institutions. Money lost through financial mismanagement can impact healthcare, infrastructure, education and other essential services.
The discussions highlighted increasing calls for stronger coordination, quicker investigations and greater transparency in protecting public resources and strengthening accountability systems in Eswatini.
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