Mbabane – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has revealed that arrests are imminent for individuals implicated in corruption within Eswatini’s health sector, believed to be at the centre of the country’s ongoing drug shortage crisis.
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and police have reportedly completed their investigations, with government now awaiting action from the justice system.
“We acknowledge the outcry from the nation and that this is indeed a legitimate cause for concern,” said Dlamini, presenting his report to the House of Assembly on July 10.
MPs Point to Corruption as Root Cause
During the debate on the health crisis in Eswatini, several Members of Parliament raised concerns that corruption — from top levels of leadership down to the Central Medical Stores (CMS) — was a primary cause of the shortage of essential medicines and medical supplies.
MP Tsembeni Magongo said corruption had claimed the lives of Emaswati, citing reports of misused budgets and payments for medication that never arrived.
Nkomiyahlaba MP Mduduzi Dlamini questioned when arrests would be made so the public could have faith in the accountability process.
“Sheep and Lions” in the Ministry of Health
Sithobelweni MP Mancoba Sihlongonyane noted that wastage, over-expenditure, and non-delivery of medication were worsening the crisis. Referring to comments made by the minister of health, he said:
“The minister has openly expressed that he is dealing with sheep and lions. I believe the lions are the cause of the problem. What is being done to deal with these lions — the super forces that hinder efficiency at the ministry?”
He also highlighted that the ministry’s system had not been updated in 10 years, warning that without upgrades, the problem would resurface in six months.
Government’s Plan for Reform
PM Dlamini assured MPs that internal disciplinary measures had already begun. He acknowledged the existence of corruption and urged all Emaswati, including MPs, to report any wrongdoing.
“Parastatals are efficient, which is why it is urgent that we transform CMS to be a semi-autonomous entity,” he said.
The prime minister said the government’s plan includes updating the essential drugs list, fixing systemic inefficiencies, and ensuring better transparency in procurement and distribution. He urged MPs to support the Executive’s proposals to address the crisis holistically.
