LUDZIDZINI: Chief Justice(CJ) Bheki Maphalala’s name featured prominently during a secret meeting for BatfwaBeNkhosi held at Ludzidzini Palace this week with others suggesting that, he must be fired as his image has been tainted by allegations of fraud and corruption.
The meeting, subsequent to Sibaya submissions,was meant to discuss names of suitable candidates as King Mswati is highly expected to announce a Prime Minister(PM) on Friday, apart from the King’s Advisory Council, the King normally seeks some advise from BatfwaBenkhosi before appointing the PM.
Two names known to this journalist were eventually recommended but, one of the Princes expressed concerns that, the new Prime Minister might have challenges to restore order, maintain peace and stability if the incarcerated Members of Parliament(MPs) Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube are still behind bars.
It has been disclosed that, the influential members of the royal family first discussed among themselves before meeting the King.
The names of the two recommended individuals, one of who might take over as the new PM cannot be revealed as the information was shared in confidence by the Prince.
“The name of the Chief Justice featured while we were discussing about the restoration of order, peace and stability.We want a Prime Minister who will advise the King to release the MPs, nani nibuye kuhlalwe phansi kukhulunywe.But then, BatfwabeNkhosi abasamnambitsi kahle lo-CJ batsi ligama lakhe selilimele kakhulu. Lokunye lesibukisene kona kutsi kumele kube nendlela yekutsi acoshwe ngekutsi anikwe lomunye umsebenti”, said the Prince.
A questionnaire was sent to CJ Bheki Maphalala, however, he had not responded at the time of compiling this report.
Reached for comments, Percy Simelane, the King’s Spokesperson said,he was not aware of the meeting.
“We are not aware of the meeting in question and by extension we do not know who they were advising the king about”, said the King’s Spokesperson.
King Mswati(pic: PHOTO: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images).