PRIME Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini says he has been criticised for intensifying the fight against corruption, which he described as one of the biggest obstacles to development and service delivery in the country.
The premier made the remarks during the consultative forum with ambassadors and government representatives, where discussions centred on governance, compliance and institutional effectiveness.
Dlamini said corruption continued to derail progress by diverting resources intended to improve the lives of Emaswati into the hands of individuals pursuing personal enrichment.
The prime minister implied that resistance against government’s anti-corruption campaign had resulted in criticism and negative commentary directed at his administration.
“If you see negative narratives written about the prime minister, it is because we are relentless in fighting corruption. We will not stop until we win the fight,” he said.
Dlamini urged public officials alike to join government’s efforts to root out corruption, which he said had become deeply entrenched across different sectors of society and government institutions.
“I urge you that wherever you go and wherever you are, join me and this government to fight this scourge that is deeply entrenched in every arm of government and corner of society.
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“Wherever you see it, reject and expose it,” he emphasised.
The premier said defeating corruption required collective action and individual responsibility.
“It takes an individual to say no and as a collective we can then win this fight,” he added.
Dlamini further noted that the theme of the forum highlighted the importance of governance, compliance and institutional effectiveness in ensuring that government programmes translated into meaningful service delivery.
“These are important elements if we are to translate our plans into actions and ultimately service delivery, which is our main goal,” he said.
The prime minister described governance as being rooted in accountability, transparency and integrity, adding that diplomats and ambassadors had a responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards while representing the country abroad.
“At its core, governance is about the exercise of authority and the manner in which power is wielded. It is also about accountability, transparency and integrity,” he said.
Addressing ambassadors directly, Dlamini reminded them that they represented both government and the people of Eswatini and were expected to conduct themselves in a manner beyond reproach.
“As our representatives abroad, you are expected to adhere to a strict code of ethics and behavioural standards that are beyond reproach, a standard worthy of your position,” he said.
The prime minister also urged the diplomats to remain mindful of the many Emaswati communities living in foreign countries who depended on their leadership and representation.
“Let us always be responsible in our thoughts, plans and actions,” he said.
