BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – In a move that may bring relief to many, Emaswati could soon receive free services from their respective Royal Kraals (Imiphakatsi).
These services include having their documents stamped under the names of their respective chiefs. Currently, many Emaswati are expressing dissatisfaction because they have to pay for such services.
The Leadership Code of Conduct (LCC) Bill, 2025 stipulates that individuals appointed or elected to leadership positions should not accept payments to encourage them to fulfil their duties. This information was communicated to members of Lutsango on 13 June 2025 at Sibane Sami Hotel in Ezulwini, where the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs sensitised them on the Bill’s contents.
The Bill further states that individuals who violate its provisions may face a fine not exceeding E20 000 or a correction period of up to five years, or both. It also mandates that the LCC Bill will apply to all officers at Tinkhundla or chiefdom levels, including chiefs, constituency chairpersons, and councillors. This information was shared with Lutsango members in response to their concerns regarding issues within their chiefdoms.
Members of Lutsango voiced their frustrations about having to pay for services that should be provided by chiefs, chiefdom heads (tindvuna temcuba), and other officials appointed by the chiefs. They also questioned whether there was any legal basis for chiefs to demand E20 000 for allocating pieces of land.
Moreover, they expressed concerns over members of Inner Councils (Bo Bandlancane) who were allegedly allocating land to individuals of foreign origin. Some of these individuals, according to the members, misuse their positions and engage in questionable activities under the guise of authority granted by the chief.
In response, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Legal Advisor John Mavuso stated that they would engage with chiefs and other officials across various regions. This initiative aims to ensure that public officials are aware of the Bill’s contents and what is expected of them regarding this legislation.
(Courtesy Pic)
