Iwould like us to think aloud about a subject of elections which unfortunately often divides our beloved nation. Those who support the Tinkhundla System, of course, praise it as the best system, yet those who favour the multiparty system are at pains to argue that electing an individual is a flawed process. Today, I would like to avoid entangling myself in this divisive debate in favour of a pragmatic approach, as throngs of emaSwati participate in elections despite the misgivings.
The Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) must be commended for rolling out its elections civic education programme, targeting various constituencies. It is appreciated that they heard the people’s cries for timely civic education, not to wait until the election year. A well-educated voter is certainly going to use his/her vote wisely, including deciding to vote based on crumbs that fall on the plate of the political aspirants. Unfortunately, that E50 they are given helps enrich an individual who will now wield power in the corridors of power, either serving their own interest or the voter’s interest.
As national discussions now turn towards governance, representation and development, a fundamental question emerges across our communities: Can we cultivate a new generation of aspiring Members of Parliament who view public office not as a position of privilege, but as a lifelong commitment to serving emaSwati?
There is an audio that has emerged where an aspiring Member of Parliament has already cast his eye on the coveted seat in his constituency. It seems he has also identified his competitors, who it seems are also undergoing a rigorous process of courting potential voters. What, however, was disappointing is that the aspirant views his potential competitors as ‘enemies’ who must be stopped at all costs. That, for me, is totally unacceptable. What is unfolding in KwaZulu-Natal and other provinces where counsellors and candidates are killed with impunity is totally unacceptable behaviour that must never be allowed to define elections.
It is clear to me that it is imperative to have servant leadership as a driving force for seeking political power. This is because the responsibilities of a Member of Parliament extend far beyond attending legislative sessions and participating in debates. Parliamentarians serve as the vital bridge between local constituencies and national policymaking. In an evolving socio-economic landscape, emaSwati require leaders who embody genuine servant leadership, individuals driven by empathy, integrity and an unyielding commitment to the public good and service.
A true servant leader in Parliament measures success not by personal prestige or political longevity, but by:
Directly addressing grassroots challenges, from rural infrastructure and water security to youth unemployment and access to healthcare, human rights violations and fighting inequality, including gender-based violence, to mention a few.
This member interrogates bills and public budgets to ensure national resources are allocated equitably and efficiently. Is not afraid to call the other arms of government, including the Executive as well as the Judiciary, to account.
He or she upholds values such as Ubuntu, transparency and zero tolerance for corruption, ensuring public trust remains intact.
Key qualities of the leaders emaSwati deserve
- To transform our legislative institutions and accelerate national development, aspiring candidates must demonstrate specific core competencies and values before seeking public endorsement:
- Living among or remaining deeply connected to the daily realities of the community they represent.
- Establishing regular, accessible constituency feedback mechanisms rather than appearing only during election cycles.
- Understanding economic policy, public finance and community development to advocate effectively on national platforms.
- Use research and policy documents to inform his or her debate.
- Prioritising community empowerment over personal enrichment or institutional
Role of electorate and aspiring candidate
Finding and nurturing such leaders is not a passive process; it requires intentional effort from both prospective candidates and the electorate.
Aspiring politicians must conduct rigorous self-examinations before stepping forward. Leadership in Parliament requires sacrifice, continuous learning and an ability to listen deeply to conflicting viewpoints. Prospective candidates should build a track record of community service long before launching a parliamentary campaign.
It is time voters in every constituency raise the bar for representation. Voting decisions and community support should be grounded in a candidate’s character, competence and proven dedication to local welfare, rather than short-term promises or material incentives. Hence, food hampers should be viewed as a red flag, as the individual who spends resources will use the office to recoup. It is time to have emaSwati who will be committed to a life of service, particularly for their constituencies. It is thus imperative that civic organisations, traditional structures and community mentoring equip young, principled leaders, particularly women and youth, equipping them with an understanding of a life of service, legislative literacy and governance skills needed to succeed in public office.
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