CORRUPTION CLAIMS AGAINST PM: BRING PROOF - GOVT

MBABANE – Government says anyone who believes and has enough evidence to prove that Prime Minister Russell Dlamini allegedly squandered public funds in his previous job is welcome to bring such proof.

In a press statement, the Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo said the allegations of corruption against the Prime Minister were a smear campaign and were not backed by any evidence. The government spokesperson said the government had been made aware of the allegations of corruption and abuse of power that were being levelled against the person and Office of the PM, particularly on social media. The allegations were based on mismanagement of COVID-19 funds. “These accusations unfortunately are not being backed by any evidence and are clearly a smear campaign meant to tarnish the image and integrity of His Excellency and the office that he occupies,” Nxumalo said.

Assured

The government assured the nation that the PM remained committed to driving the government’s position to eradicate corruption in the country, without fear or favour, as per His Majesty the King’s call. This position was further reiterated by the PM himself when he set up the Anti-Corruption Task Team on February 12, where he declared that ‘no one is immune’ from being investigated and prosecuted. The task team is made up of the Ministry of Justice departments, which are the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), ACC as well as the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS). Nxumalo said any corruption accusations levelled against the PM were, therefore, nothing but an orchestrated move and evil ploy meant to divert the public’s attention from the real masterminds of corruption.

Comfort

Further, government said the nation would find comfort in knowing that the PM was vetted and found in good standing before he assumed office. It was stated that during his time at the helm of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), the organisation received six clean audits from a reputable international audit firm. These audits also covered the utilisation of COVID-19 funds. “Government invites anyone who believes His Excellency has anything to hide and feels the need to verify these accusations to do so, through established structures. This includes all legal entities tasked with investigating and prosecuting corruption cases,” he said. Nxumalo stated that government would not be subjected to a ‘permanent state of defending and explaining political machinations and character assassination manoeuvres’ directed to those who hold public office, including the PM and other officials.

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