BY MBONGENI NDLELA
LOBAMBA – Members of Parliament are expected to engage in a busy sitting of the House of Assembly today, with debates ranging from the multi-billion Emalangeni International Convention Centre (ICC) project, accountability reports from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), labour issues and the ongoing discussion on the Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill.
The sitting will begin with the tabling of key reports, including the report of the Select Committee on the Mbabane Government Hospital Employees’ Petition and an update by PAC on the implementation of recommendations arising from the Auditor General’s compliance audits.
Parliament will also receive a petition from retired RFM orderlies, bringing another labour-related matter before lawmakers.
Among the highlights of the day’s proceedings will be oral questions directed to Cabinet ministers. One of the most anticipated questions is expected to be directed to the Minister for Economic Planning and Development, who will be asked to explain the projected return on investment from the billions spent on the ICC project.
Other ministers will face questions relating to the delayed Gaming Act Regulations, employment opportunities facilitated through Eswatini’s diplomatic missions abroad, and the protection of Emaswati working in neighbouring countries.
The House is also expected to continue deliberations on the Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill, 2024. MPs will consider the Portfolio Committee report on the Bill before proceeding with Committee Stage deliberations and potentially the Third Reading.
Another matter likely to attract attention is a motion seeking the establishment of a Select Committee to investigate allegations involving the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM). The proposed investigation would examine claims relating to an alleged E30 million investment, overseas travel by a senior officer, escalating costs of a new building project and allegations of preferential treatment involving an internet service provider.
Parliament will further consider motions calling for investigations into petitions from the Eswatini Nursing Association and the Swaziland National Ex-Mine Workers Association.
In what could become one of the most politically watched debates of the day, MPs will also consider a motion requesting Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini to provide a detailed report on how his leadership style aligns with the Tinkhundla system of governance, its impact on Cabinet collective responsibility and its effect on service delivery.
With accountability, governance, employment and economic development all on the agenda, today’s sitting is expected to generate significant debate both inside and outside Parliament.
