Prime Minister (PM) Russell Mmiso Dlamini has urged the police to expose corruption and unscrupulous practices, even when those involved are fellow officers.
He warned that high crime rates, rampant corruption, gender-based violence (GBV), stock theft and organised crime were among the challenges the police must confront directly and courageously.
“There can be no compromise in the fight against these ills — only strength and courage. We must expose those involved in corruption, even if they are in uniform. Fear no man, but God, who sees in secret and will demand accountability,” the PM said.
He made these remarks during the Police Annual Prayer Service held yesterday at Matsapha Police Academy, under the theme ‘Lord, revive us again’, drawn from Psalm 85:6.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former National Commissioner of Police Isaac Magagula, Manzini Regional Administrator Chief Gija, Members of Parliament Nathie ‘Mdokies’ Hlophe (Mtfongwaneni) and Bishop Bhekibandla Vilakati (Ngwemphisi), as well as clergy Pastor Griffiths Dlamini and Lady Bishop Zanele Shongwe of Divine Healing Ministries International. Junior and senior officers from the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) and His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) were also present.
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In his address, the prime minister thanked the police service for taking time to fellowship and worship, acknowledging the peace and stability enjoyed in the country, as well as the blessings of rain.
“We thank God for what He has already done and ask for grace to be part of what He will do,” he said.
He emphasised that the strength of the police service lay not only in human effort, but in God, who provides wisdom, strength and victory.
“He promised in His Word to never leave us and that nothing is difficult with Him. Herein lies our secret weapon: an ever-present God, who has all ability,” the PM remarked.
The premier also noted that the leadership of the police service mirrored the example set by the country’s leadership, with His Majesty King Mswati III and Her Majesty the Indlovukazi consistently putting God first.
Highlighting the theme of the service, Dlamini said that as the police service embarked on the challenges of a new year, it was imperative to seek God’s guidance.
“As Ephesians 6:12 says, we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil. We need revival to be strong in the Lord and His mighty power,” he said.
Encouraging boldness within the police force, the prime minister referenced Proverbs 28:1, which states that the wicked flee even when no one is pursuing them, while the righteous are as bold as a lion.
“Let those with evil intents never find peace. As a service, let us make them run and find nowhere to hide,” he said.
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Dlamini also emphasised preparation, quoting Proverbs 21:31, which notes that while the horse is prepared for battle, victory comes from the Lord.
He said the police service had a duty to be prepared and organised, demonstrating excellence in planning and execution, adding that God would bless the work of their hands and grant success.
The prime minister expressed gratitude to the clergy for their moral and spiritual support and acknowledged guests from the South African Police Service Christian Fellowship, highlighting the longstanding cooperation between the two services.
“May God give strength and courage to our men and women in uniform. May He protect them and their families as they carry out their mandate. May He bless the spirit of peace, cooperation and progress among our people and continue to keep and bless Their Majesties. May the Lord bless us all,” he concluded.
