BY DELISA THWALA
LOBAMBA – “May we all continue to contribute meaningfully to the peace and development of the kingdom as we pursue the aspirations of our national vision,”
These sentiments were uttered by His Majesty King Mswati III during the fifth session of the 11th Parliament opening today.
His Majesty mentioned that the country’s socio-economic development aspirations for a better future can only succeed if they are firmly grounded in peace.
“One is certain that no one wants to live in a country where government structures are continuously destroyed, homes are burnt down and people’s lives are lost.
“When a business is burnt down it means people will lose jobs, and the ripple effects of this are huge. That is not the kingdom that our forefathers envisaged and fought for,” he said.
His Excellency emphasised that this behaviour was chasing away investors and working against the decentralisation policy.
In addition he said it unfortunate though that there are faceless organisations, institutions and individuals who are promoting the problems that people have fallen victim to in recent times.
“Sponsoring terrorism is a crime against humanity. We call upon all mankind and friends of the kingdom in particular, to condemn these acts of assassinations where we have lost many lives,” said the King.
Words of comfort to all families that have been affected by these developments, were sent by the King during the opening by saying ‘ Imphilo yemaSwati ayitsengisi bekunene. Akuphele lokubulala sive’
“We beseech the almighty god to forgive those who are causing terror in the kingdom with the aim of reversing all the gains that emaswati have worked for since we gained our independence in 1968.
“Let us promote the spirit of living in harmony with one another. Let us guard and cherish this jewel as a nation for the benefit of our future generations,” he said.
