By Bongiwe Dlamini

MBABANE: Prince Simelane, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development announced a Building Appeals Tribunal that gross undetermined the principles of gender equality.

One of the basic principles of gender equality suggests that men and women must be equally involved in decision making.

The Tribunal announced by the Prince on Thursday was dominated by men in a country rated as one of the most unequal countries in the world.

Reached for comments, Colani Hlatjwako, the One Billion Rising Africa Coordinator said it was disappointing to note that women continue to be disregarded in decisions or leadership positions.

“It is so disappointing that women continue to be disregarded in decision or leadership positions.Underrepresentation of women in such structures leads to decisions that undermine women or those that are not gender sensitive. As a country we must be gender sensitive when making appointments, by ensuring equal representation of both men and women.  appointments of women shouldn't be a by the way but as a matter of principle," she said.

In eSwatini women are treated like third class citizens, they are forced not to wear pants when entering public offices, widows are discriminated and restricted from entering Palaces even during traditional events.

When announcing the Tribunal, Housing Minister Prince Simelane said he was confident that the members will serve Swazis diligently and advise accordingly regarding all matters they will be dealing with.

“We are confident that you will serve emaSwati diligently and you will advise us accordingly regarding all the matters that you will be dealing with. We believe in you and wish you the best of luck as you go about your duties,”said the Housing Minister as quoted by Government online platform.

Members of the committee include Ray Dlamini (Chairman),Sipho Shongwe,Mbuso Simelane, Bongani Mabilisa, Kholiwe Shongwe, Mkhululi Mamba and Michael Jele(Secretary).