COMMITTED to serving the nation effectively and efficiently, Russell Mmiso Dlamini has once again called for unity within Cabinet.
Speaking during a Cabinet retreat attended by principal secretaries from various ministries at the Royal Villas yesterday, the Prime Minister urged ministers to move forward as one government and one team.
Dlamini revealed that in 2025 Cabinet faced serious challenges, some of which were overcome while others remain unresolved. He said these challenges would not persist if members acted collectively and decisively.
Last year, it was widely reported that there were internal divisions within Cabinet, an issue that also sparked debate in Parliament. There were also reports of cabals allegedly influencing divisions among ministers, making it difficult for them to work cohesively. However, the individuals said to be involved were never publicly identified.
The Prime Minister drew inspiration from the Bible, referencing the Prophet Nehemiah, who rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem in 52 days after they had lain in ruins for centuries. He said despite opposition, Nehemiah remained focused and undistracted.
“Our task is no different. It is to rebuild, accelerate and deliver. The Nkwe mandate calls us to be decisive, disciplined and united,” he said.
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Dlamini added that each minister must leave the retreat with a clear plan, timeline and unwavering commitment to execution. He said the retreat offered an important opportunity to reflect honestly on the year gone by, acknowledging both achievements and shortcomings. It was also a chance to chart a clearer and more decisive path forward as the collective leadership of government.
He urged ministers to remain firmly anchored to the Nkwe mandate bestowed upon them by His Majesty King Mswati III at the People’s Parliament (Sibaya).
Dlamini said they should remain deeply grateful to Their Majesties for their wisdom, guidance and steadfast leadership as they shoulder the responsibility of steering government and the nation towards the vision of becoming a developed country.
“This year’s retreat has been deliberately designed to broaden our worldview. We have invited experts to challenge our thinking and support the mindset change that is essential for national transformation,” he said.
The Prime Minister noted that the kingdom already has strong planning instruments in place, including the Programme of Action, the Grand Plan for National Transformation and the National Development Strategy.
“Our challenge today is no longer the absence of plans, but the quality, speed and discipline of execution,” he said.
