CONTRARY to critical media reports, the Kingdom of Eswatini has concluded a remarkably successful and peaceful election process, reaffirming its commitment to democratic governance. This significant process, spanning from voter registration to nominations, primary elections, and culminating in the secondary elections on September 29, 2023, has garnered praise from government officials and international observers.
Eswatini’s government officials commended the active participation of its citizens in exercising their universal and constitutional right to vote and stand for election. Notably, this election cycle witnessed an extraordinary achievement, with a record-breaking 91 percent registration of eligible voters—a feat that remains aspirational for many nations worldwide.
Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo asserted, ‘These remarkable figures reaffirm the Eswatini government’s assertion that the Tinkhundla system of governance is a participatory democratic system. It underscores the principle that every liSwati has a voice and influence in shaping the government they envision.’
The Eswatini government expressed its gratitude to diplomatic and development partners from various blocs and countries for their pivotal role in ensuring the success of the elections. Notable partners included the African Union, the European Union, the SADC Secretariat, the Commonwealth, the United States Embassy in Eswatini, and the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Maputo, who sent elections observation missions to the country.
The reports from these missions have unequivocally affirmed that Eswatini’s national elections were conducted freely, fairly, and peacefully—bucking the trend in many African countries. These findings resonate with the long-standing commitment to democratic principles in Eswatini, dating back to the country’s inaugural Tinkhundla elections in 1978.
The recommendations outlined in these reports, particularly the importance of dialogue and equitable representation of youth and women in parliament, align harmoniously with Eswatini’s advocacy. The government eagerly anticipates the Sibaya national dialogue—an annual traditional gathering of citizens in the Kingdom—called by His Majesty King Mswati III, scheduled for Monday, October 23, 2023.
Special recognition was reserved for the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) for their unwavering dedication to ensuring the seamless conduct of the elections. This election cycle witnessed significant improvements in the voting process, characterised by minimal wait times and manageable queues. The government commended the EBC’s stellar performance and conveyed its commitment to further enhancing the electoral process.
The Eswatini government extended heartfelt congratulations to all the victorious candidates in their respective constituencies. Special mention was made of the eight women MPs-elect, signifying a substantial improvement from the previous national elections in 2018. Those who did not secure victory were encouraged to continue their valuable contributions to their communities and to support incoming leaders. The government underscored the paramount importance of accountability for the incoming Members of Parliament, Tindvuna Tetinkhundla, and Bucopho, emphasising their responsibility to represent their constituents with unwavering integrity and loyalty.
