By Bongiwe Dlamini

MBABANE:Sivumelwano Nyembe,the Spokesperson of the pro-democracy MultiStakeholder Forum(MSF) says,the Tinkhundla system of governance lacks the essence of democracy.

Responding to this Swaziland News on Wednesday after being asked to share a comment regarding Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini’s sentiments where he paraded Tinkhundla as democratic,the MSF Spokesperson said,Tinkhundla does not embrace political dissent.

The PM was speaking on Wednesday during the official opening of an induction workshop for the Manzini Members of Parliament(MPs).

“We hold the belief that Tinkhundla lacks the essence of democracy.A fundamental benchmark of democracy lies in its ability to embrace and respect political dissent. However, the underlying principle of Tinkhundla appears contrary to this essence.Therefore,labeling Tinkhundla as democratic seems implausible unless there exists a unique definition of democracy specific to the country,” said the MSF Spokesperson.

On another note,the Prime Minister, as quoted by Government online platforms, urged emaSwati to defend and promote the Tinkhundla system of governance. 

“Tinkhundla are the backbone of the country’s governance.My observation is that we have only focused on the political aspect of Tinkhundla and yet there is another aspect of it, which is administration and which we need to also prioritize.For us to develop Tinkhundla, we need to boldly talk about the system. I am not afraid to openly say our Tinkhundla is a democratic system.If you know the principles of democracy, you will agree. Tinkhundla belongs to us and it will evolve once emaSwati decide it's time to amend the system,” said the Prime Minister.