Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Jabulani ‘Buy Cash’ Mabuza, has called upon the nation to pray for Their Majesties ahead of the official opening of Parliament.
He made the remarks on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, during a rehearsal session at Parliament for the official opening of the Third Session of the 12th Parliament, scheduled for Friday, 20 February 2026.
In his address, the Speaker, who is also the Pigg’s Peak Member of Parliament (MP), said that since the commencement of rehearsals and preparations for the important national event, no negative incidents had been observed. Instead, he said, it was encouraging to witness emaSwati embracing a spirit of unity and cooperation towards a common goal.
“We encourage the continuation of the positive spirit we have seen and thank the entire nation for this impressive working spirit. Please continue to pray for the national event scheduled for Friday, 20 February 2026, and for it to be blessed by Their Majesties and be a great success,” said Mabuza.
The legislator noted that there had been unity and determination among all those involved in the preparations and rehearsals to ensure the success of the event.
“Some are supporting us through prayer, while others are on the ground working with us to ensure this upcoming national event is a success. We greatly appreciate your efforts, especially my colleagues, the parliamentarians, who have worked extremely hard to prepare for this national duty,” he said.
On the other hand, the Deputy Speaker, Madala Mhlanga, was also afforded an opportunity to share his observations regarding the preparations and rehearsals.
The Deputy Speaker, who is also the Mhlangatane MP, stated that, in his view, the preparations and rehearsal session had proceeded smoothly.
“I cannot complain; I believe all is in order and the preparations went very smoothly,” he said.
Mhlanga further indicated that, as parliamentarians, they were ready to welcome Their Majesties for the official opening of the Third Session of the 12th Parliament on Friday.
However, the Deputy Speaker raised a concern requiring clarification from Senate President Pastor Lindiwe Dlamini. He sought to know whether interpretation in the country’s two official languages would be provided simultaneously during the proceedings. He also asked what would be expected of attendees when the national anthem is paused — whether they should remain standing until it resumes or take their seats during the interval.
In response to Mhlanga’s concerns, it was indicated that such detailed logistical matters would soon be finalised and relevant stakeholders duly informed.
