By Bongiwe Dlamini

MBABANE: Mashumi Shongwe, the Nhlangano Mayor who stands accused of killing his wife Tigezile Magongo-Shongwe is seemingly tired of being labelled a ‘murder suspect’ in articles published by this Swaziland News.

As a results, Shongwe who recently lost elections sent a ‘hot’ message to editor Zweli Martin Dlamini on Sunday afternoon complaining about the continued publication of articles where “he is consistently” labelled a murder suspect.

“Zweli unjani,why do u keep labelling me a murder suspect, what are you intending to achieve nje. Don't you know of many good things l ever did in many ways in my life and organizations?. Your bad intentions won't do good of you. At least l less care about what ever you write about me instead you show to be so much against me.You need God in your life so that you can respect other people Zweli,” reads part of the messages sent by the Nhlangano Mayor to the Managing editor.

The Mayor further reminded the editor that he was actually the one who was rejoicing each time an innocent soul was murdered, he urged Dlamini to find comfort in God so that he can respect other people in society.

On another note, editor Zweli Martin Dlamini urged the Mayor to file a formal complaint and state reasons why this publication must not refer to him as a murder suspect, after killing his wife.

“The Mayor is free to file a complaint with the editor and state reasons why this publication must not refer to him as a murder suspect. As the media, we have the responsibility to balance the public interest and individual’s right to human dignity. Alternately, Shongwe can file a complaint with the Press Council of South Africa, an institution that regulates the media including this publication, we will discuss the matter and respect the ruling if we are found to be on the wrong side to refer to him as a murder suspect”, said the editor.

The editor further clarified that, the phrase “murder suspect”, suggests that Shongwe is innocent until proven guilty.

“Once the court finds him guilty, we will then refer to him as a murderer, for now he is just a suspect who is out on bail and I don’t understand why he is sensitive to be labelled as such by the media. This is in line with journalism ethics and if he wants to confirm that, he must report this Publication to the Press Council”, said the editor.