BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Former Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo has added his voice to the growing praise for the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), following their widely appreciated efforts to improve road safety and serve the nation with distinction.
Nxumalo was responding to the commendation expressed by Business Eswatini on July 29, 2025, in recognition of the Malagwane Cooling Station, which has significantly reduced accidents along the notorious Malagwane Hill. He said the entire police force, across all departments, deserves national gratitude for their dedication to public service.
He called on the nation to show greater cooperation and respect towards the police, especially while they are executing their duties. “You don’t fight the police—you work with them. They are there to protect and serve the nation,” said Nxumalo.
Reflecting on the June 21, 2021 national unrest, Nxumalo recounted how he himself had received numerous death threats and threats of arson directed at his homes in Manzini and KaMfishane. He credited the police for being the frontline defenders of internal security during that period. “Even under extreme conditions, the police carried out their duties. Some even paid the ultimate price,” he stated.
Nxumalo also acknowledged the challenge of reporting threats made through anonymous social media accounts and disposable phone numbers. Nonetheless, he said the mere presence and mandate of the police provided hope and assurance for law-abiding citizens.
He expressed deep sympathy to His Majesty the King, the National Commissioner of Police (NatCom) Vusi Manoma Masango, the national command team, and the affected families following the recent suicides of police officers.
Nxumalo, who worked closely with Masango during the unrest, praised the NatCom’s decision to launch an investigation into the causes of suicide among officers. He said the move would help identify trigger factors and provide a clearer understanding of the issues officers face.
“Without law enforcement, society would descend into chaos. Good laws alone are not enough—they must be enforced,” Nxumalo concluded.
