BE, TUCOSWA WEIGH IN ON MINISTERS’ PRADO PURCHASES

MBABANE - As the storm of discontent continues to brew over government’s recent purchase of Toyota Prado 2.8L XL vehicles for Cabinet ministers, the decision has sparked reactions from stakeholders. Business Eswatini Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Nathi Dlamini and Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA) Secretary General (SG) Mduduzi Gina are among those weighing in on the matter, which has become a subject of public debate. Dlamini, in his remarks, questioned the timing and justification of the ministers’ grievances. “Really? Are we serious right now? When our economy and fiscus are riddled with a plethora of problems that threaten our survival, we are, however, busy involved in a discourse of whether or not a 3.0-litre Prado should’ve been purchased instead of a 2.8L,” he said.

He pointed out that the newer 2.8L engine is more powerful and fuel-efficient compared to the discontinued 3.0L model. Dlamini requested that such discussions be kept away from public scrutiny, emphasising that ‘take the conversation offline and away from our prying ears, please’. On the other hand, Gina approached the matter from a different perspective. He acknowledged the ministers’ right to raise concerns if the vehicles provided did not align with the specifications outlined in Finance Circular No.2 of 2023. “If indeed the cars were not what was supposed to be given to the ministers based on the circular, they have a right to complain,” he said.

However, Gina also criticised the Ministry of Public Works and Transport for failing to consult stakeholders before opting for the lower-specked vehicles. Beyond the issue of consultation, Gina urged ministers to exercise restraint in their demands, particularly given the socio-economic challenges facing the country. “Whatever is being afforded to the ministers, they should guide themselves not to be seen as an extravagant executive amid social issues on the ground in Eswatini,” he advised. The controversy centres around the Ministry of Public Works and Transport’s decision to purchase the Toyota Prado 2.8L XL, citing availability issues with the preferred 3.0L model. Ministers argue that the vehicles fall short of expectations in terms of performance, prestige and resale value—especially since they are allowed to purchase the vehicles at the end of their terms.

Comply

Economist Sanele Sibiya shared the same sentiments with Gina, mentioning that ministries should comply with given policies or circulars. He said the ministers have the right to complain given the promised vehicles in the circular. However, Sibiya also concurred with Dlamini and Gina on the issue of the economy and fiscus being riddled with a plethora of problems that threaten citizens’ survival. Sibiya said it is crucial for government to strike a balance between the prevailing economic situation on the ground and complying with stipulated policies. Meanwhile, the Minister for Finance, Neil Rijkenberg, said ministers must make peace with their cars. The minister said the vehicles that were bought were specified in the circular, which spells out the politicians’ terms and conditions of service.

“The ministers have less choice here. The circular is clear on what to get so that we can find something exactly of the same price or less. “The vehicles have been bought and it is not our decision but the Royal Commission.” The minister said it was not possible now to decide against the circular or seek its review. It is not even our call to make.”
Mvuselelo Fakudze, Chairperson of the Royal Commission and Standard Bank Eswatini Chief Executive (CE), stated that ministers are free to submit their concerns about their vehicles to the commission. However, he clarified that any such submissions may not be implemented during the current Cabinet’s term, but could be considered when the terms and conditions of service for politicians are revised for the next Parliament.

Fakudze explained that ministers can channel their submissions to the subcommittee responsible for handling such matters with the Cabinet. “This effectively means that the ministers are stuck with the cars for now,” he remarked.According to sources close to the matter, ministers are not at liberty to alter their terms and conditions of service once these have been established. These conditions are determined before ministers assume office, through a process where the Royal Commission formulates the terms, which are then submitted to His Majesty for approval. Additionally, Fakudze highlighted the unique element that the vehicles are considered a gift from the King. When ministers leave office, as was the case with the previous Parliament, they are not required to pay for the vehicles. Instead, they take them home at no cost, despite the fact that the circular specifies they should purchase them at a depreciated price.

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