BEMANTI PELTED WITH STONES, FLEE

SITEKI - A man of Macetjeni, under Gilgal Inkhundla, is alleged to have pelted two members of the Water Party (Bemanti) with stones on Sunday afternoon.

According to a source closed to the matter, five members of the Water Party were on their mission when two of them entered the man’s homestead, while the three remained at the gate. The source narrated that the man asked them what they were doing at his home. This is despite that it is a norm that at this time of the year, members of the Water Party are deployed in all communities across the country. The source said the man who could not be named, as he has not been arrested, picked two stones and pelted the men, who both ran to join their colleagues at the gate.

It was said they then went to the Macetjeni Umphakatsi to report the matter. The attack was also reported to the police.It was established that after committing the crime, the man fled his home, where he lives with a helper and a child.Authorities of the community requested to confirm the matter anonymously, expressing fear that this was a sensitive issue. Macetjeni Traditional Headman (Indvuna Yemcuba) Sipho Mamba also asked not to comment on the matter. However, he said the members of the Water Party arrived on Saturday at the chiefdom and left yesterday morning. Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Senior Superintendent Phindile Vilakati said the matter was not reported and shared that such matters were reported to other structures.

Report

At the time of compiling this report, it was not established if the man had been arrested, but a source mentioned that a police van, with foreign registration plates, had been constantly spotted near the man’s home.Recently, Acting Ludzidzini Governor Themba Ginindza issued a stern warning to the nation.  Ginindza emphasised the importance of preserving cultural identity, urging emaSwati to participate actively in the ceremony and avoid spreading misinformation. He underscored the significance of the Water Party Regiment, a key component of the Incwala, which will enforce cultural norms and values during their 30-day seclusion.

The acting governor appealed to the public to demonstrate respect for the regiment and to avoid actions that could undermine the sanctity of the event. He also urged journalists to verify information before publication, ensuring accurate and responsible reporting.The Water Party Regiment has been assigned to the sea, where they will spend about 30 days. It is after their return that the King opens the little Incwala at Ludzidzini Royal Residence, before it moves to the other royal residences in the country.Ginindza warned the nation to respect the Water Party Regiment as it performs its cultural duties during the course of the event. Members of the regiment are identified by traditional attire and a baboon skin on the head. They go around the country reminding emaSwati about their cultural values.

Incwala Ceremony is an annual event where emaSwati gather inside Ludzidzini Cattle Byre to celebrate the fruit of the first harvest. EmaSwati also thank the Creator for guiding and protecting them since the country gained its independence from Britain on September 6, 1968. They also seek God’s guidance and protection for the New Year.

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