ADMINISTRATION, LEGISLATION TENSIONS

What is the current state of the interaction between the country’s administration and its legislative body?

Is there substance to the circulating rumours that there is tension between these two critical institutions? At first glance, it appears that Prime Minister (PM) Russell Dlamini’s administration is facing significant challenges, especially concerning its relationship with the legislative branch, that is, if recent media reports are to be believed. It is possible that my interpretation is incorrect, but it appears to me that there exists a noticeable discord between certain members of Parliament and the administration, particularly regarding the prime minister. Perhaps some parliamentarians are disenchanted with the prime minister’s leadership approach, which some critics suggest may verge on narcissism.

This notion brings to mind the recent controversy surrounding the Editor’s Forum breakfast meeting.Michael Masilela, the Member of Parliament representing Lobamba constituency, recently urged the prime minister to improve his efforts - to be precise, he said the PM must ‘pull up his socks’ - during a parliamentary discussion on the prime minister’s policy statement. In this statement, the PM highlighted the shared responsibility of all emaSwati in fostering economic transformation.However, it appears that there may be underlying issues regarding the MP’s ‘pull up your socks’ remark. It seems there may be tensions affecting the collaboration between legislature and the executive.

Motions

The legislature expressed frustration over some of the ongoing issues, noting that despite their efforts to raise questions and motions in the House, critical situations persist, such as patients suffering in hospitals due to a lack of medication, while they (both Parliament and government, presumably) remain in office. He implied that both arms of government were not adequately addressing the pressing challenges facing the nation. The MP called on the prime minister, as the head of government business, to take decisive action, highlighting that the nation looks to him for leadership.

He warned that if the government fails to perform effectively, the entire country will face difficulties. He urged the prime minister to collaborate with Parliament to tackle the public’s concerns, particularly regarding the shortage of drugs. The country is grappling with various challenges, and some are directing their criticism towards both the administration and the legislature; the latter being blamed for failing to hold the administration accountable.

On the other hand, long-serving Lobamba Lomdzala Member of Parliament Marwick Khumalo also had something to say concerning the PM’s policy statement, specifically the government’s 5-year plan calling it a ‘wishlist’ and questioning if it is achievable. He reportedly went further and said in vernacular, the PM, ‘uhlabela ingoma (singing a song) in relation to the Prime Minister’s envisaged 12 per cent economic growth, labelling it as a ‘dream’.In light of these developments, can we confidently pose the question: Are we finally witnessing a Parliament that is stepping up to the challenge of taking on its long-awaited role as a vigorous watchdog? Or, is there may be an underlying agenda aimed at highlighting the deficiencies of the administration, particularly concerning its leader? Ultimately, only time will reveal the truth.

Before I dive deeper into the subject, it is important to define what a ‘government policy statement’ is. Based on my findings, a government policy statement is an official announcement detailing a government’s planned approach to a specific issue (or issues). It clarifies the government’s position, goals, and suggested actions concerning various areas such as the economy, education, healthcare, foreign relations, et cetera. These statements are generally released by government officials or departments to inform the public and other stakeholders about the government’s strategies and priorities.

Typically, government policy statements are made at crucial moments in the political timeline, such as when a new government takes office; before budget releases; or in reaction to major events or challenges. They may also be issued in response to public requests for clarity on certain topics or as part of a larger initiative to influence public perception.The release of a government policy statement is a notable and important occurrence that often attracts significant attention and scrutiny.  This, on the surface, appears to be what the legislative arm of government is doing - vigorously scrutinising and interrogating the policy statement. The policy also provides the government with a chance to showcase its leadership, offer guidance, and reassure the public and other interested parties regarding its plans and intentions for tackling pressing issues. Is the so-called policy statement addressing the challenges faced by the nation?

One of the key purposes of a government policy statement is also to provide transparency and accountability. This is exactly what the public, key stakeholders and yours truly had all along been advocating for. For too long, as the public, we have called upon the administration to be accountable and refrain from engaging in perceived shrouded secrecy. By clearly articulating its objectives and proposed actions, the government should allow the public and other stakeholders to understand its priorities and hold it to account for its decisions and performance - and, underperformance.

Moreover, government policy statements should serve as a basis for public debate and input. They provide a framework for discussion and engagement, allowing individuals, organisations, and other political actors to express their views, offer feedback, and contribute to the formulation and refinement of government policies. The burning question is: Has this opportunity been availed to key stakeholders?

That said, it is important to note that as a country facing numerous challenges, it is in our best interests to formulate a policy statement that is people-centred that will address the numerous, pressing challenges the country and its citizens currently face. From escalating poverty levels to a healthcare system grappling with drug shortages allegedly due to corruption, the list of challenges is extensive and calls for urgent action from the government.

Attention

I will list below some of the issues that, in my opinion, the government policy should include. One of the foremost challenges that demand immediate attention are the escalating poverty levels in Eswatini. The situation is very dire. The government’s policy statement must outline concrete measures to alleviate poverty, such as creating sustainable employment opportunities and implementing social welfare programmes to support the most vulnerable members of society. Unemployment rates, especially among young people, are alarmingly high. The social welfare support available is inadequate. In fact, to be brutal with the truth, it is a mockery. Take, for example, the E500 monthly grant for the elderly; it’s simply not enough, particularly when the cost of living has surged to such extreme levels.

In my opinion, to effectively combat poverty, the government needs to prioritise the creation of jobs that not only provide immediate income but also contribute to long-term economic stability. Our people are swimming in a cesspool of poverty, largely as a result of unemployment with little or no job prospects at all. Tertiary institutions churn out graduates by the thousands every year with no employment prospects in the job market. The country desperately needs investment in key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and the industrial sector. By promoting especially agricultural development, the government can empower local farmers, enhance food security, and create a ripple effect of employment opportunities in related industries.

Government must also introduce diverse social welfare programmes which in my opinion are crucial for assisting vulnerable groups, especially in rural areas. These programmes could include, say, food assistance every three months or so in addition to the monthly social welfare grants; and also access to education and job training. By providing financial aid to low-income families, the government can alleviate immediate struggles while also investing in the future of the nation’s youth.

The issues facing the younger generation are a looming crisis that could lead to significant consequences. The country’s youth is restless and very angry due to lack of employment opportunities. Consider, for example, the increasing crime rates. The country is facing a perplexing rise in gangsterism, where communities are robbed, brutally attacked and stabbed even right inside their own homes, leaving them severely injured and deprived of their possessions. Education and job training initiatives can equip young people with the skills needed to find stable jobs, thereby breaking the cycle of poverty and crime.

Addressing the challenges within the healthcare system is also essential. Ongoing drug shortages, exacerbated by corruption, jeopardise the health and well-being of the population. The government needs to implement transparent procurement processes and strengthen oversight to ensure that healthcare resources are properly allocated and reach those who need them. Furthermore, investing in healthcare infrastructure and other initiatives can enhance the quality of life of citizens.

It is imperative that community involvement and participation in policy are considered crucial. By engaging local communities in the creation and implementation of poverty reduction strategies, the government can ensure that these programmes are customised to meet the specific needs and situations of the population. This inclusive approach could promote a sense of ownership and accountability, empowering individuals to actively improve their own lives and communities.

Another critical area the policy should address and which requires intervention is the deteriorating educational system in the country. When one reminisces about how our education system used to be one of the best in the African continent, some of us weep. Corruption in the hiring of teachers to permanent positions has undermined the quality of education - so is the perpetual employment on contract of qualified teachers. The policy should address this issue by advocating for merit-based recruitment and promotion processes; as well as establish stringent anti-corruption measures within the education sector.

Furthermore, tertiary institutions facing delays in student allowance allocations and staff experiencing delayed or no increase in salaries demand immediate redress. The policy statement should focus on ensuring timely disbursement of student allocations, as well as addressing the issue of stagnant wage levels for university personnel. One area I’ve previously raised concerns about numerous times in this column, is the prevalence of gender-based violence in the country. This is a pressing concern that cannot be overlooked anymore. The violent incidences of gender-based violence, requires this crisis to be declared a national emergency. The policy statement must include comprehensive strategies to combat gender-based violence and reduce crime rates through enhanced law enforcement and community-based initiatives.

Moreover, the high unemployment rates and limited foreign direct investments necessitate targeted policies to stimulate economic growth and attract investments. The government’s policy should outline measures to, for example, promote entrepreneurship, create job opportunities, and improve the investment climate to attract foreign capital. We need credible investors who will remunerate employees decent, living wages. A national minimum wage is long overdue.

Investments

In addition, the lack of noticeable foreign direct investments and limited educational scholarships further exacerbate the challenges faced by our people. The policy statement should articulate a clear roadmap for attracting foreign investments and expanding educational scholarship opportunities to empower the youth and enhance human capital development. In conclusion, the government must prioritise the formulation of a people-centred policy that addresses the multifaceted challenges confronting the nation. By tackling issues such as poverty, healthcare, education, crime, unemployment, and investment, the policy statement can pave the way for a brighter future for the people of Eswatini.

It is imperative that the policy is not only comprehensive, but also implemented effectively to bring about tangible improvements in the lives of the citizens.As a parting shot, I humbly urge the prime minister of our country to interact positively with all important stakeholders and the public. We all make mistakes; none of us is fallible. It is essential to foster tolerance, avoid arrogance, and build strong relationships with everyone involved if we aim to progress our nation. Peace! Shalom! Wishing you all a happy and great Sunday and week ahead.

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