By Zweli Martin Dlamini

MBABANE:Sifiso Khumalo, the Attorney General (AG) has warned against any conduct that seeks to undermine the rule of law in the country.

Speaking to this Swaziland News, the AG said he maintained his position and sentiments he made in Parliament regarding the attempt by Parliament suspend the provisions of the Prevention of Organized Crime Act (POCA) adding that this was an attack to the Constitution and the rule of law. He said he was not legally allowed to discuss issues of Parliament outside the House but briefly confirmed to this publication that his legal position on the subject matter stands.  

This is the law that resulted to public outcry after reports emerged suggesting that the State was seizing private properties owned by dagga farmers, the House of Assembly through a motion moved by Hosea MP Mduduzi Mabuza subsequently adopted a resolution to suspend the law, they gave Justice Minister Pholile Dlamini Shakantu an ultimatum to prepare a Bill for its amendment. 

When asked to clarify the matter, the AG said his position that he made in Parliament stands but he mentioned that Parliament was not above the Constitution.

“I made my position clear on this matter in Parliament but it’s important to understand that Parliament is not above the Constitution and we must guard against an attack to the rule of law, something that might result to negative effects to the country at international level” said the AG.

Prime Minister Ambrose Dlamini said the law remain effective despite the Parliament resolution adding that public concerns would be addressed by following the legal procedures. Speaking during a press conference, the PM said the law was meant to fight corruption and clarified that it was not targeting the powerless or the poor but even the rich.