By Musa Mdluli

MBABANE:Penuel Malinga, the Secretary General of the People’s United Democratic Movement(PUDEMO) has, on behalf of the political organization, released a statement, congratulating health workers for their dedication as part of the International Nurses Day.

“The People’s United Democratic Movement(PUDEMO) joins the global community in commemorating International Nurses Day, and takes this moment to salute and extend heartfelt appreciation to all nurses in Swaziland and around the world for their unwavering dedication, compassion, and tireless service to humanity. Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare systems, serving with courage and resilience even under the most challenging conditions, often under-resourced, overworked, and underpaid. In Swaziland, they continue to uphold their calling within a collapsing health sector riddled with systemic failures, corruption, and a lack of political will,” reads the statement in part.

PUDEMO said, despite these hardships, health workers “remain committed to preserving life, promoting dignity” and, providing critical care to those in need.

“As a people’s movement, PUDEMO recognises the essential role nurses play not only in treating illness, but also in advocating for health equity, addressing social determinants of health, and caring for the whole person. Their work uplifts the most vulnerable members of society and inspires a shared vision of a healthier, more just, and equitable world. We stand in firm solidarity with nurses in their struggle for better working conditions, fair compensation, adequate staffing, and the respect they so rightfully deserve. Their calls for a sustainable and people-centered healthcare system must be heard and acted upon. PUDEMO therefore calls on the government and healthcare institutions to prioritize the needs of nurses and the patients they serve. We demand urgent investment in healthcare infrastructure, workforce development, training, and supportive policies that place people above politics,” he said.