Even though I had some reservations with Commerce, Industry and Trade Minister Mancoba Khumalo, our publication had a huge interest in his Ministry’s activities because he was seen officially opening some new businesses.
In a country where about 70% of the population lives below the poverty line, the opening of a new business even if that particular company will employ one(1) person,is of public interest and a gradual improvement in developing the lives of emaSwati.
Whenever the Ministry of Commerce facilitates the establishment of businesses, some through Foreign Direct Investment(FDI), the onus is upon Labour and Social Security Minister Phila Buthelezi, the Wages Council and other stakeholders to ensure that emaSwati receive decent salaries.
Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini wished emaSwati a Merry Christmas,I don’t want to criticize him on Christmas Day except to wish him a Merry Christmas as well.
But the political journey continues next year and my predictions suggest that, it might go through a rough political road with potholes than smooth surfaces, the PM must deliver basic services to the people and in the event he fails, he must go to Lozitha and plead with King Mswati to relieve him of his duties.
EmaSwati cannot enjoy a Merry Christmas on empty stomachs amid the reluctance by Government to increase salaries for all civil servants including the police, Correctional Services officers and soldiers.
As a Christmas gift, Government must prioritize the welfare of emaSwati including the payment of decent salaries for a better life for all.
As the editor, one of the issues our publication would be focusing on next year is the issue of salaries for all workers in the country.
We will play our role as the independent media to consistently remind the Tinkhundla Government that emaSwati are hungry and financially broke amid the payment of low salaries and, we will be doing that in the best interest of the Nation.
A majority of emaSwati in this country, some who are working for Government are living in poverty and we need to address these issues and demand accountability from those in power.
One of the factories to be opened at Lubulini(pic: Gov).