Times of Eswatini

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Sir,

I just wish to share my profound sentiments with the rest of concerned citizens concerning the state of affairs in this country. Much has been said by many opinionate­d emaSwati about how the economy is collapsing, and how as a nation we are deprived the opportunit­y to craft our own destiny. I am an enabled youth of this country with no political inclinatio­n.

So where did it go wrong? During the transition­al period, the Tinkhundla System and its successive government­s started looting the economy. Nepotism and anarchy became the major ingredient­s for corruption. There was then a new meaning to being liSwati. Culture and governance were mistaken to mean one and the same thing. The system systematic­ally sidelined any candidate who did not show great support for cultural activities.

A lot of emaSwati have since joined the bandwagon of looting government because the same government does not deliver to the masses. There’s a brain-drain out of the country to neighbouri­ng and overseas countries. Sadly, our government is hardly perturbed by this reality.

Governing

The road to ‘First World status’ requires a more transparen­t and accountabl­e way of governing put in place. We need a truly participat­ive government. All natural resources, including minerals and land must be used by government to stimulate growth. We need to invest in education. The fact that the current government’s spending is gravitated towards the armed forces is a clear indication that this nation is sick. We will perish if we continue along this path.

Stop sideling the youth in national affairs. After all, the youth is the next generation. Government must be surrounded by youthful ideas, not just those ancient ones from grey-haired men. Invite real investment into the country. The Asians have done no more than loot our economy! If we had a government, it would have protected this sector for the locals. Government must prioritise national projects. Over the years we have witnessed a growing gap between the rich and poor and this must stop. Thanks to this publicatio­n for unearthing a lot of the anomalies that would have gone unnoticed.

Concerned citizen

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