- CEO says she is “not above the law” as council rejects allegations
- Municipality says it remains focused on moving Mbabane forward
- Council reaffirms commitment to fair and lawful processes
BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – Mbabane Municipal Council has reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, transparency and good governance, assuring the public that the municipality remains focused on delivering services and moving the capital city forward.
Addressing the media on July 16,2026 , Mayor Councillor Thulani Mkhonto said the council would continue handling all matters in line with established policies, the law and principles of natural justice.
Mkhonto said the municipality does not discuss employee disciplinary matters in public because such matters are confidential and must follow due process.
He was addressing concerns circulating on social media regarding the suspension of the council’s Information and Public Relations Officer (PRO) and allegations levelled against Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gciniwe Fakudze.
The mayor confirmed that the PRO Lucky Tsabedze is currently on suspension pending the conclusion of an internal disciplinary process relating to alleged performance-related misconduct. He said the council could not disclose further details while the process was ongoing.
Mkhonto said allegations circulating on social media regarding the PRO’s suspension were inaccurate and did not reflect the actual disciplinary proceedings before the council.
The council also rejected claims Gciniwe Fakudze mistreats employees or uses abusive language when addressing staff, stating that no employee has lodged such a complaint through the municipality’s recognised reporting and grievance channels.
The mayor said the council remains committed to maintaining a professional and respectful working environment where all concerns are addressed fairly and according to the law.
Fakudze said she was confident in the legal process and challenged anyone with evidence of wrongdoing against her to present it so that the matter could be dealt with appropriately.
She said the allegations had shocked her, especially after spending 14 years working at Matsapha Municipal Council before joining Mbabane.
“If what they say is true, they must give my boss the proof so that the law can deal with me. I am not above the law,” Fakudze said.
She added that the municipality’s priority was ensuring that Mbabane continues to progress and serve residents effectively.
The council further clarified that the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF) loan mentioned on social media was obtained through the ENPF Infrastructure Fund to finance approved municipal infrastructure maintenance and development projects.
It stated that the facility was not intended for, nor used to finance, personal travel by the CEO or any other official.
Mkhonto urged the public to allow internal processes to take their course and called on the media to verify information with relevant authorities before publication.
The council said it remains committed to accountability, professionalism and serving the people of Mbabane.
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