Africa-Press – Eswatini. Declaring assets should not be the responsibility of public officials alone—it should extend to all sectors where public trust is vital.
This is the view of Senator Prince Mphatfwa, who believes that broader transparency could help root out corruption at every level of society.
Speaking on August 11, 2025, during a Human Rights Commission meeting with chiefs from the Hhohho Region, Prince Mphatfwa—also speaking in his capacity as a chief—emphasised that integrity is not only for those in high-ranking positions. The meeting was aimed at sensitising traditional leaders on the responsibilities that come with their endorsement by Their Majesties to serve the nation at chiefdom level.
The Senator said it was a misconception that corruption was only found at the top. He pointed out that dishonest practices sometimes occurred among officials in smaller positions, both in the public and private sectors. “Some misuse funds in their workplaces, then build lavish homesteads on Eswatini Nation Land and send their children to expensive schools—despite earning salaries that do not match such lifestyles,” he said.
Prince Mphatfwa also called for “tenderpreneurs”—business people who benefit from awarded tenders—to be part of the asset declaration framework. He stressed that these business people should be transparent about their dealings, especially amid public complaints about tender allocations that seem to favour a select few, leaving others without fair access to opportunities.
He said extending asset declaration requirements beyond public office holders would help build public confidence, protect honest businesses, and ensure that opportunities are shared more equitably.
“This is about fairness and accountability for everyone, not just a few,” he added.
The Human Rights Commission acknowledged the Senator’s points and said such proposals could form part of future discussions on strengthening integrity frameworks in Eswatini.
By widening the scope of asset declarations, stakeholders hope to foster a culture of openness—ensuring that public resources, business opportunities, and community trust are safeguarded for the benefit of all emaSwati.
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