BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
MANZINI – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has encouraged emaSwati to defend and promote the Tinkhundla’s system of governance.
The Prime Minister was speaking at the induction workshop of Manzini politicians that was held at the George Hotel today.
In his speech, Dlamini said, “Tinkhundla is the backbone of the country’s governance. My observation is that we have only focused on the political aspect of Tinkhundla, yet there is another aspect of it, which is administration, which we also need to prioritise.”
Dlamini went on to say, “For us to develop Tinkhundla, we need to bodly talk about the system. I am not afraid to openly say that our Tikhundla is a democratic system. If you know the principles of democracy, you will agree. Tinkhundla belongs to us, and we will evolve once emaSwati decide its time to amend the system,” shared the PM.
“We also need to strengthen Tinkhundla through rebranding the system. Not just rebranding our structures, but also the way we do things, should demonstrate that this system is ours. Let’s also demonstrate excellence.”
The PM further said another way of strengthening Tikhundla is by modernising the system: “The country is developing our thinking; therefore, our thinking should also be aligned to the times. We must study how the world operates and align Tinkhundla with global best practices.
Dlamini shared with the politicians that back in their constituencies they should pay attention to all development programmes,including those funded by partners. “Not everything that comes outside should be accepted by us. Let us not be afraid to reject what doesn’t work for us.
He concluded his speech by advising the politicians to look at the manner in which they plan in various communities. Dlamini highlighted that if they don’t plan,they will soon have shanty towns in all the communities. “If we are not careful about how we develop our Tikhundla, we will soon have a challenge,” said the PM.
(Pics sourced from Eswatini Govt Facebook Page)
