DUE to the increasing number of reports on men raising children who are not biologically theirs, Members of Parliament are expected to move a motion urging government to introduce mandatory DNA testing, particularly in cases where paternity is disputed or unclear, before the issuance of birth certificates.
The aim is to address growing concerns over paternity fraud and its social consequences. This is contained in the notice paper published yesterday by the office of the Speaker of the House of Assembly. The motion is expected to be moved by Mahlangatsha MP Mgucisi Dlamini and Mhlambanyatsi MP Dr Bonginkosi Dlamini.
According to the MPs, there has been a rising number of cases in which men have unknowingly raised children who are not their biological offspring. According to the motion, the MPs are expected to argue that the current birth registration system does not verify paternity, potentially leading to emotional trauma, broken families, and unjust financial obligations.
They emphasised that a birth certificate was a legal document affirming a child’s identity and parentage, and should therefore be based on accurate and verifiable information.
The MPs are expected to argue that truth and transparency in family matters are essential for social stability, justice, and the protection of both men and children.
They therefore called on the Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, to develop and implement a policy requiring DNA testing in cases where paternity is disputed or unclear, prior to or during birth registration.
“Government must establish a legal and ethical framework that regulates DNA testing to ensure the protection of the rights of the child, the mother, and the alleged father. The State should consider subsidising or offering affordable DNA testing services, particularly for low-income citizens, to avoid financial discrimination in access to biological truth,” reads the notice paper.
The MPs further suggested that counselling and legal support services should be made available to help families navigate the emotional and social impact of DNA results.
The motion mandates the Minister of Home Affairs to present an amendment to the National Civil Registration and Vital Statistics Act of 2023 within 60 days of the motion’s adoption, to incorporate the use of DNA testing in birth registration.
Junior officers excluded from international assignments
JUNIOR officers are allegedly excluded entirely from covering international assignments at Eswatini TV.
This was highlighted by MPs in another proposed motion published by the House of Assembly’s notice paper yesterday, urging the Minister for Information, Communications and Technology to present a detailed report addressing operational and labour concerns at the Eswatini Broadcasting and Information Services (EBIS) and Eswatini TV.
The motion, to be moved by Mtfongwaneni MP Nathi Hlophe and seconded by Mafutseni MP Sabelo Mtetwa, cites allegations of poor labour practices, unresolved grievances, and unclear or unfair internal processes at the two national broadcasters.
According to the MPs, international travel opportunities were allegedly dominated by the newsroom at EBIS, with limited participation from other departments, while at Eswatini TV, junior officers were reportedly excluded entirely from covering international assignments.
The motion also raises alarm over persistent shortages of basic working tools and essential broadcasting equipment. The MPs stated that at EBIS, the alleged failure to procure an Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) has reportedly led to frequent signal losses and broadcast interruptions.
The Minister is expected to table a comprehensive report on these issues within seven days of the motion’s adoption.
MPs question delays in MVA Fund payments
MEMBERS of Parliament are calling on the Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, to state reasons for the persistent delays by the Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVA) Fund in paying road accident victims.
The motion is contained on the notice paper that was published by the office of the Speaker of the House of Assembly yesterday. It is expected to be moved by Zombodze Emuva MP Ntando Mkhonta, who will be seconded by Phondo MP Bonginkosi Dube.
According to the MPs, the delays in pay-outs are causing accident victims significant financial and emotional strain.
They stated that Parliament is seeking clarity on the Fund’s current financial status, including the average time taken to process and pay claims.
The MPs stated that the report should also outline reforms or actions being taken by the ministry to speed up disbursements, ensure transparency, and restore public trust.
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