Africa-Press – Eswatini. The decision by Government to institute a Commission of Inquiry into the affairs of Eswatini Medical Christian University (EMCU) should not be viewed as an attack on the institution.
Rather, it should be seen as a necessary and responsible intervention aimed at protecting a public asset, safeguarding taxpayers’ money and restoring confidence in one of the country’s most important higher learning institutions.
For months, EMCU has been at the centre of allegations involving governance disputes, financial management concerns, power struggles and accusations of misconduct among senior figures linked to the university. These concerns eventually reached Parliament and attracted widespread public interest, making Government intervention almost inevitable.
Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini was therefore justified in invoking the Commissions of Inquiry Act to establish an independent investigation that will separate fact from speculation.
At the heart of this matter is a simple question: what exactly is happening at EMCU?
Government owes students, parents, lecturers, taxpayers and the nation an answer.
The university’s own statement, released on Sunday, paints a picture of an institution under siege from disgruntled former officials and external interests allegedly seeking to gain control of more than E55 million in reserves and investments. EMCU management argues that the institution has transformed itself from a financially distressed organisation carrying a deficit of about E47 million into a stable university with substantial reserves.
Those are serious claims.
However, equally serious are the allegations that prompted Government’s intervention in the first place.
This is precisely why the Commission of Inquiry is necessary.
The public cannot be expected to simply choose between two competing narratives. Government has a responsibility to establish the truth through an independent process.
The Prime Minister’s last Friday announcement makes it clear that the inquiry will investigate allegations of maladministration, fraud, misconduct, abuse of authority, conflicts of interest, governance failures and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Importantly, the Commission is not limited to investigating individuals. It has also been tasked with identifying systemic weaknesses that may have contributed to the problems currently confronting the institution.
That broader mandate is significant.
Many public institutions across the world suffer not because of one individual, but because governance systems become weak, accountability structures collapse and oversight mechanisms fail. If EMCU’s challenges stem from institutional weaknesses rather than personal wrongdoing, Government must know that as well.
The university’s statement raises several issues that deserve careful examination.
Management claims that attempts were made to access university reserves. It alleges that certain former officials sought the release of E10 million from EMCU funds. It also questions the motivations of individuals involved in parallel investigations and raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
These are not matters that can be settled through press statements.
They require evidence.
They require witnesses.
They require documents.
Most importantly, they require an impartial body capable of reaching conclusions based on facts rather than emotions.
That is exactly what the Commission of Inquiry is expected to do.
Critics may argue that investigations create instability. Yet the opposite is often true. Institutions become unstable when allegations remain unresolved for long periods. Uncertainty damages investor confidence, affects staff morale and creates anxiety among students and parents.
Transparency brings certainty.
If EMCU management is correct in its assertions, the inquiry provides an opportunity to clear its name and strengthen public confidence in the university’s leadership.
If wrongdoing is uncovered, then corrective measures can be implemented to protect the institution’s future.
Either outcome benefits the university.
Government’s responsibility extends beyond protecting EMCU’s reputation. It must also protect public resources. As a public enterprise operating under the Ministry of Education and Training, EMCU receives public support and performs an important national function by training future professionals, particularly in the health sector.
The stakes are therefore too high for Government to remain on the sidelines.
The appointment of respected figures led by Chairperson Mbuso Simelane sends a clear signal that Government intends to conduct a thorough and credible investigation. The four-week inquiry period should allow investigators to gather evidence, interview relevant stakeholders and compile recommendations that can strengthen the institution.
Ultimately, the Commission’s success will not be measured by headlines or political opinions. It will be measured by whether it uncovers the truth and provides a clear roadmap for improved governance.
EMCU’s future is too important to be determined by allegations and counter-allegations alone.
Government has taken the correct step by ordering an independent probe.
Now the nation must allow the Commission to do its work.
The facts, not rumours, accusations or competing press statements, must have the final word.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
