BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE– Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla has emphasised that Parliament must remain robust in carrying out its oversight role, stating that Members of Parliament (MPs) should not be expected to protect egos while delivering on their mandate.
Speaking during an interview on Eswatini TV’s Asakhe Kwetfu programme, the Deputy Prime Minister said MPs have a responsibility to speak openly and firmly, as they represent the interests of the people who elected them.
MPs Under Pressure to Deliver for the People
Dladla noted that MPs operate under significant pressure from their constituents, who expect tangible results and accountability from government institutions. She said this pressure justifies the need for legislators to be assertive when engaging the Executive and holding it accountable.
The issue was raised by programme anchor Lington Gule, who questioned whether there was a need for better alignment between the Executive and the House of Assembly, given that debates can sometimes become personal and lead to tensions.
In response, Dladla maintained that there is nothing inherently wrong with Parliament being forceful, even when debates become personal, as long as the focus remains on service delivery and accountability.
Oversight Role Requires Strong Engagement
The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that the three arms of government—the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary—are all accountable to the people and must work to deliver on national priorities.
She explained that MPs, particularly those elected by the public, have a duty to question, challenge, and push government institutions to perform. This includes holding both the Executive and, where necessary, the Judiciary accountable.
Dladla indicated that such engagement should not be mistaken for conflict, but rather seen as a necessary part of a functioning democratic system.
No Room for Ego in Public Service
Dladla further stated that members of the Executive should not expect MPs to protect their egos, as both sides are working under pressure to meet public expectations.
She emphasised that public service requires resilience and a willingness to be scrutinised, adding that robust debate is essential in ensuring that government remains responsive and effective.
According to her, Parliament has evolved into a more active and engaging institution, compared to previous periods when it appeared less dynamic.
Legal Protection Enables Open Debate
The Deputy Prime Minister also pointed to the Parliament Privileges Act of 1967, which provides MPs with legal protection to speak freely within the House without fear of punishment.
She noted that this legal framework is essential in enabling open and sometimes heated debates, which are necessary for effective governance and accountability.
Dladla added that MPs themselves now appear more engaged and committed to their roles, contributing to a more vibrant and functional Parliament.
Call for Continued Accountability
Dladla concluded that robust parliamentary engagement should be encouraged, as it strengthens governance and ensures that the needs of the people remain at the centre of decision-making.
She reiterated that accountability, rather than comfort, should guide interactions between the different arms of government, ultimately benefiting the nation as a whole.
(Courtesy Pic)
