By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has urged the management of the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) to extend the annual police prayers to all police stations across the country.
Dlamini made this call on January 30, 2025, during the Christian Police Association’s Annual Prayer Day and 30th Anniversary, held at the Matsapha Police Academy.
The Prime Minister believes that such a move could significantly aid the police in their fight against crime. He noted that the rates of crime, corruption, and suicide remain high in the country, and addressing these issues requires not only law enforcement efforts but also divine intervention through prayer.
Dlamini emphasized that the Annual Prayer Service has become a significant occasion where the police organization joins members of the Christian fraternity and officers from other security services to share in the Word of God. He commended this tradition, highlighting its alignment with biblical teachings.
Furthermore, he saw the event as an opportunity for the Police Service to seek God’s guidance in their initiatives for the new policing year. “I believe this culture and practice have sustained the organization and enabled it to successfully deliver on its mandate over the years,” Dlamini stated.
Recognizing the demanding nature of police work, characterized by numerous risks, Dlamini stressed the necessity of divine guidance. “To effectively discharge their duties, police officers need divine wisdom and assistance. Since assuming the role of Minister for the Police, I have gained a deeper appreciation of the challenges in policing. Having a day dedicated to seeking God’s sustenance is an act of great wisdom,” he said.
The Prime Minister further emphasized that without God’s help, the Police Service would struggle to overcome its challenges. However, with divine support, all things are possible. “As we pray today with one voice, uniting police officers, members of the Christian fraternity, and other stakeholders, we trust that God will provide the answers we seek. His Word assures us that when we pray and seek His face, He will hear us and provide the guidance we need,” he affirmed.
Dlamini expressed gratitude to all who attended the police religious event. The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including officials from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and guest preachers Rev. Johannes Vuyisisle Mazibuko, Rev. Agrippa Matse, Rev. M. Mkhatshwa, and Mrs. Sharon Jephta, all of whom played a significant role in the service.
The event was also graced by the presence of the Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development, Sikhumbuzo Dlamini, as well as Senator Isaac Magagula and Mayiwane Member of Parliament Sicelo Prince Dlamini, all of whom are former police officers. Representatives from other security organizations, including the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF), His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS), and the Eswatini National Fire and Emergency Services (ENFES), were also in attendance.
(Featured Image: REPS)
