Southern African Development Community (SADC) preliminary fact-finding mission has been completed, and there are still more questions than answers.The mission which was aimed at gathering first-hand information on the chaos at eSwatini was led by Honourable Dr. Lemogang Kwape. The three men mission was made up of Ministers of Foreign Affairs for the Republics of Botswana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The delegation by the Chairperson for SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security- His Excellency Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi was to further appeal for calm and restraint from all the stakeholders, as well as to propose consideration of an open national dialogue, as a way forward in the efforts towards finding a lasting solution. “All consultations were held in an atmosphere of calm, mutual respect and understanding, There was a clear sense of urgency to address the situation in the country. The proposal for an open national dialogue was highly welcomed as a way forward towards finding a long lasting solution” the delagation reported. In their report, where it is mentioned that not all stakeholders were engaged due to time constraints, the delegation found out that Twenty-seven (27) people were killed in eSwatini chaos. On the contrary, the Swaziland Solidarity Network (SSN) yesterday reported that Forty (40) people got killed. Commenting on Honourable Kwape’s report, some Members of Parliament expressed concern over the situation at eSwatini and information Kwape brought forward. “Minister, why is it that your numbers of deceased people differ with what people of eSwatini report? Moreover, what are government officials whom you met saying about when multi party democracy will be reinstated at eSwatini so that people can vote for their preferred leadership?” Honourable Wynter Mmolotsi questioned. Meanwhile, Honourable Onnetse Ramogapi held that it seems as if Kwape and team took the government of eSwatini’s side in their reporting. Honourable Carter Hikuama wondered how SADC will mediate while the people of eSwatini do not trust the organization.
SADC downplaying eSwatini deaths?
