Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Minister for Home Affairs, Princess Lindiwe Dlamini, has reassured church leaders that government regulations affecting religious institutions are designed to maintain order and peace, rather than control how congregations worship.
She made the remarks during the first session of the Ministry of Home Affairs’ discussions on a national policy for religious institutions, held at the Ministry of Commerce Auditorium on 10 November 2025.
Princess Lindiwe reportedly emphasised that the government’s objective was to prevent disputes, reduce tensions, and stop the uncontrolled proliferation of churches, while respecting the autonomy of religious bodies. “Government church regulations are for order, not control,” she said. “Our aim is to restore peace, maintain order, and stop the uncontrolled mushrooming of churches. We do not seek to interfere with how you worship or lead your congregations.”
Her comments were met with warm applause from Christian leaders attending the session, many of whom welcomed the clarification and expressed optimism about the collaborative approach. The discussions come amid growing concern over conflicts within churches, including a recent incident at the Africa Evangelical Church (AEC), where a pastor allegedly assaulted a regional executive member during a dispute over leadership matters.
Reverend Johannes Mazibuko reportedly raised questions regarding the current church registration process. He asked whether confusion over registration procedures might have contributed to internal disputes, and sought clarification on whether government still recognises the three mother bodies of churches, given the emergence of new religious entities over time.
In response, Princess Lindiwe assured leaders that clearer registration rules were being developed. She emphasised that these regulations would be designed to support self-regulation within churches, allowing religious bodies to maintain their internal governance while ensuring transparency and accountability. “Church leaders will continue to have the freedom to manage their congregations, while the government ensures a structured environment for all religious organisations,” she explained.
The Minister highlighted the importance of dialogue between government and religious institutions, suggesting that open communication would prevent misunderstandings and strengthen trust. She encouraged church leaders to engage constructively in the policy development process, noting that their insights and experiences were crucial to creating regulations that benefit both the wider community and the faith-based sector.
Participants reportedly expressed hope that the initiative would reduce conflicts and promote harmony within and between churches. Many viewed the session as a positive step toward ensuring that Eswatini’s vibrant religious community continues to thrive in a safe and orderly environment.
Princess Lindiwe concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting religious institutions while maintaining national peace and cohesion. She emphasised that the new policy framework would not interfere with worship but would instead provide guidance to foster collaboration, accountability, and good governance among churches.
Through these efforts, the Ministry aims to balance respect for religious freedom with the need for orderly management of institutions, signalling a future where faith communities and the government can work together constructively for the benefit of all Emaswati.
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