THERE'S NO CABAL IN PARLY - MARWICK

MAHLANYA – Lobamba Lomdzala MP Marwick Khumalo, has dismissed allegations of a so-called ‘cabal’ within Parliament, stating that the claim lacks merit and substantiation.

While he did not mention Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini by name, it was clear he was responding to the recent assertion by the premier, who had alleged the existence of a group within Parliament exerting undue influence.

Speaking during his constituency’s annual general meeting held at his Inkhundla yesterday, Khumalo described the allegations as unfortunate and unfounded.

The meeting, a routine engagement held after the delivery of the Speech from the Throne and the National Budget, was well attended by constituents eager to receive an update on parliamentary affairs.

“It is regrettable that we have been labelled in such a manner,” Khumalo remarked.

Drawing an analogy, the seasoned legislator said: “It is like someone calling another person a ‘dog’you simply ignore such insults, draw strength and move on. Labels in politics are common, but they should not deter us.”

responsibility

He emphasised his responsibility to report back to those he represents on developments in the House of Assembly.

Khumalo expressed concern that some individuals appeared to have little regard for the constitutional roles of others, reminding his constituents that Cabinet remains accountable to Parliament, as prescribed by the Constitution of the Kingdom of Eswatini.

Turning to the issue of The Luke Commission (TLC), Khumalo addressed criticism from elements he described as repeatedly attempting to portray the health institution in a negative light. He affirmed that he is among the MPs who strongly supported the decision to provide government subvention to the charity-operated hospital.

He explained that the support became necessary, as public healthcare in the country had deteriorated, leading to overwhelming demand for the services of TLC. As a non-profit facility reliant on international donor funding, the hospital became financially strained due to the sheer volume of patients seeking medical assistance.

“In light of the collapse of the public health sector, many emaSwati turned to TLC for urgent medical care,” Khumalo said, earning applause from attendees.

“The donors were unable to keep up with the financial demands, yet TLC continued serving our people,” he added.

support

“It was only right for government to extend support, given that TLC stepped in where public hospitals could not—particularly amid shortages of medication.”

Khumalo pushed back against critics of TLC’s subvention, noting that some of them manage private medical aid schemes and receive treatment at premium private healthcare institutions—care that is not accessible to ordinary citizens.

“As representatives of the people, especially those dependent on TLC, we cannot oppose government support for such a facility,” he stressed.

Defends fuel levy

In addition, the MP addressed the controversial E0.40 per litre fuel levy, introduced as part of efforts to rehabilitate the country’s deteriorating road infrastructure. He defended the levy, stating that maintaining the nation’s roads was essential, as poor road conditions were contributing to damage and increased maintenance costs for vehicles.

He pointed out that, despite the levy, fuel prices in Eswatini remain lower than those in neighbouring South Africa.

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