LOBAMBA – Nhlambeni MP Manzi Zwane has questioned the logic behind the renewal of Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo’s contract pending his ongoing controversial court case.
This transpired during the debate of the Ministry of Public Service’s second quarter performance report yesterday.
| Eswatini Observer WhatsApp Channel
Nxumalo is facing rape charges involving two siblings, aged 17 and 18. He was charged with contravening the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act of 2018.
Last month, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) renewed Nxumalo’s contract but placed him on leave pending his rape trial. Nxumalo’s previous contract expired on May 13, leaving the post vacant.
During the debate, MP Zwane said he was disappointed by the reinstatement of Nxumalo and wondered what precedence such a move was setting, taking into consideration that Nxumalo was facing serious charges.
“What precedence are we setting here anelicashata lelingaka? What did he do to deserve such a reward?” enquired Zwane.
He questioned why Nxumalo was needed that much to warrant being brought back under the prevailing conditions.
In response, Minister of Public Service Mabulala Maseko said he was not in a position to respond on the spot, as the reinstatement of Nxumalo was the prerogative of the CSC.
“I will have to double check and respond in writing. CSC is mandated by the Constitution to hire, discipline and dismiss civil servants,” he said.
Maseko also mentioned that his office was not directly involved in the process.
Eswatini Observer Press Reader | View Here
