MBABANE – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has clarified that a group of emaSwati in the Republic of South Africa calling for the return of land to Eswatini is acting independently and does not represent the Government of Eswatini.
The clarification is contained in the report of the Prime Minister’s Office Portfolio Committee debate, which was tabled in Parliament on Monday and is expected to be adopted today by the House of Assembly.
The matter arose after clarity was sought following reports circulating on social media that some emaSwati living in South Africa were demanding the return of land they claim historically belonged to the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Further clarity was sought on why the Land Restoration Committee and government had remained silent on the matter despite the growing public interest generated by the reports.
Responding to the concerns, the prime minister explained that the individuals involved were people familiar with the historical circumstances surrounding land that Eswatini lost to what is now the Republic of South Africa.
According to the report, while the group has been vocal on social media and other public platforms, it is not acting on behalf of government or the Kingdom of Eswatini.
“The group of people who are demanding Eswatini land back are people who happen to know the history of the land that Eswatini lost to the Republic of South Africa. The group that is making rounds on social media does not represent the Government of Eswatini nor the country at large.”
The prime minister further indicated that the individuals concerned had made it clear they were acting independently and pursuing their views in a personal capacity rather than under any government mandate.
He emphasised that matters relating to international relations, territorial issues and engagement with neighbouring countries remain the responsibility of government and are pursued through established diplomatic channels.
“Matters relating to international relations and any engagements with neighbouring countries remain the responsibility of government and are pursued through established diplomatic channels in the national interest,” the report states.
The prime minister also responded to a question on whether he has an advisory body within Cabinet or carries out his responsibilities independently.
The issue arose after a Member of Parliament sought clarity on whether the prime minister has a formal advisory body within Cabinet. It was argued that there was a relatively simple matter that could have been resolved more effectively had the prime minister been supported by such a structure.
Clarity was sought on whether the absence of a formal advisory body may have contributed to delays in addressing certain government matters.
According to the report, the prime minister clarified that although there is currently no formal advisory body attached to his office, he is supported by a team of advisers and senior government officials who provide expert guidance on a wide range of matters.
The report states that he receives support from advisers with specialised expertise in different fields who assist him in the execution of his responsibilities.
According to the report, the prime minister is supported by a technical adviser who provides subject-matter guidance on various government programmes and policy issues.
In addition, the Government Press Office provides strategic communications advice to ensure government decisions and programmes are communicated effectively to the public.
The report further states that the Secretary to Cabinet and the Principal Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office also play key advisory roles by providing guidance on Cabinet processes, policy co-ordination and administrative matters relating to the functioning of government.
The prime minister also informed Parliament that he regularly consults a wide range of stakeholders whenever the need arises.
These consultations include engagements with traditional leaders, technical experts and other subject specialists whose knowledge and experience assist in informing government decision-making.
According to the report, such consultations enable the prime minister to draw on expertise from different sectors before major policy decisions are taken, ensuring that government actions are informed by professional advice and practical experience.
The report further reveals that the prime minister has already initiated a request for the establishment of a political adviser position aimed at strengthening the advisory capacity of his office and enhancing strategic policy support.
While the proposal received approval from the Ministry of Public Service, the report notes that the necessary authority from the Civil Service Commission (CSC) has not yet been granted.
As a result, the position has not yet been established despite recognition of the need to strengthen the office’s advisory capacity.
The response also underscores the prime minister’s commitment to consultative leadership, noting that although a formal advisory body has not yet been constituted, decisions are not taken in isolation. Instead, they are informed by advice from experienced public officials, technical experts and other stakeholders whose input contributes to effective governance.
