Times Of Swaziland: WHY ALLOW ELDERLY TO SUFFER?

WHY ALLOW ELDERLY TO SUFFER?
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Editor on 30/09/2024 08:38:00


Sir,
I wish to express my deep concern over the ongoing neglect of more than a
thousand Eswatini citizens who have lost their life savings to the fraudulent
Ecsponent investment company. This travesty has touched nearly every household
in our nation, with countless individuals either directly or indirectly affected
by this appalling situation.
Plight
Attending any of the annual general meetings held by these defrauded investors
provides a stark picture of the gravity of their plight. The most striking
aspect of these gatherings is the age of those present. Most are elderly
citizens who spent their working lives striving for a secure retirement, only to
have it cruelly snatched away. This is a race against time, as many do not have
the luxury of waiting for delayed justice to unfold. The physical and emotional
toll on these senior citizens has become painful. At least two public meetings
have witnessed the elderly investors collapsing, no doubt from the overwhelming
stress and heartache they endure.
Reports
Tragically, reports suggest that over eighty of these victims have already
passed away, their fight to reclaim what is rightfully theirs cut short by the
immense emotional and physical strain placed on them. Despite this mounting
tragedy, the relevant authorities have largely remained silent. Instead of
receiving assistance, these senior citizens have been subjected to a frustrating
cycle of bureaucratic indifference. With no other option, they now find
themselves turning to the courts, hoping for even partial restitution of the
E400 million that vanished with the heartless directors.
In the face of this silence, we must acknowledge and commend the ‘Good
Samaritans’ who have stepped up to champion the course of these vulnerable
citizens. Their efforts stand in stark contrast to the inaction from government
bodies. It remains to be seen whether Parliament’s House of Assembly, which
also has ties to this debacle, will rise to the occasion and contribute to a
meaningful solution to this pressing national issue.
Sibusiso Msitsini