BY MBONO MDLULI
SIMUNYE – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini called for a new era in Eswatini’s industrial relations landscape, where the Government, businesses, and trade unions would not view each other as adversaries, but as partners.
He made these remarks on May 1, 2025 during the Workers’ Day commemoration organised by the Federation of Eswatini Trade Unions (FESWATU) at Goshe Szokolay Memorial Stadium in Simunye that afternoon.
The prime minister praised FESWATU for its peaceful approach to trade unionism, stating that the organisation demonstrated an understanding that the success of employees depended on having a harmonious relationship with their employers.
He expressed his desire for a new era in industrial relations, emphasising that businesses and trade unions should not see each other as enemies. He noted that when one side suffers, everyone suffers, and when one side succeeds, all must move forward.
The premier highlighted the need to change the narrative in the country, asserting that the current tension between labour and business was unnecessary and detrimental to the economy and future. He stressed that transparency, honesty, respect, and a commitment to the rule of law were essential values for good industrial relations.
He stated that good industrial relations were crucial not only for peace and stability in the workplace but also for economic growth and job creation. He conveyed the vision of His Majesty’s Government to reduce unemployment, improve productivity and wages, and create an environment where every worker could thrive.
The PM affirmed the Government’s commitment to working with organised business and organised labour to foster a harmonious industrial relations environment that would enhance decent working conditions and improve the socio-economic development of the country, thereby raising the standard of living for all citizens.
He explained that the presence of the Cabinet at the event, similar to their attendance at last year’s May Day celebrations with the Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA), was a demonstration of their unwavering commitment to strong social partnerships between the Government, organised business, and organised labour for the betterment of the country. He assured that they were listening, acting, and united in this cause.
Finally, he urged all parties—Government, employers, and employees—to walk this path together in a spirit of partnership and in pursuit of a better tomorrow.
Also present during the event was acting Minister of Labour and Social Security Apollo Maphalala, who was standing in for Minister Phila Buthelezi, who is bereaved. Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg was also present, as well as Ministry of Labour and Social Security Principal Secretary (PS) Makhosini Mndawe.
