BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – Using force and destruction to settle community disputes is damaging Eswatini’s image and undermining its progress toward First World status, warns King Advisory Council (Licoco) Chairperson Paul Dlamini.
Speaking during an interview with Eswatini TV, Dlamini condemned recent incidents where homes were demolished during land disputes including a E500 000 Shabangu family home in KaNcesi and a E320 000 widow’s house in Mpolonjeni allegedly torn down by a gun-wielding chief.
“These conflicts must never be resolved by violence,” Dlamini said. “They hurt families, tarnish our country’s image, and go against the constitution. The law must be followed, and disagreements must be settled peacefully.”
He urged chiefs, advisory councils, and all citizens to respect legal processes and avoid actions that destroy lives and property.
With Eswatini hosting major events including the Trade Fair, Butimba, and preparations for Umhlanga and Incwala Dlamini stressed that the world is watching.
“September is when Eswatini welcomes tourists and revenue. We must show we are a peaceful nation,” he said.
“Traditional leaders must lead by example. Resolve disputes around the table not with bulldozers and guns. Our nation’s dignity, unity, and future depend on it,” Dlamini concluded.
