The Swazi Court in Manzini has dealt with no fewer than 20 cases of people using vulgar language (kwetfukana) in just one week, highlighting how quick tempers and sharp tongues continue to thrive in the country’s commercial hub.
The cases involve residents who reported one another for offensive language, often sparked by personal disputes and neighbourhood quarrels. Officials described the number as unusually high for such a short period, underlining how verbal altercations remain a common feature of daily interactions in the city.
In one case at Mangwaneni on September 20, neighbours Thandi Sihlongonyane and Mumcy Dlamini allegedly clashed over noise levels, with one party reportedly insulting the other’s family background. The quarrel escalated to the point that both were brought before Ndabazabantu (King’s Liaison Office) to restore peace.
Another case involved a financial dispute between friends Sanele Mtsetfwa and Mnqobi Dube. After repeated requests for repayment, Dube allegedly resorted to sharp and demeaning words, prompting the other to file a complaint.
The Swazi Court noted that while such cases may appear minor, the use of demeaning language carries serious consequences in Eswatini’s customary justice system, as it undermines respect and harmony within communities.
Community elders in court said the rise in cases was a reminder that restraint and civility should guide exchanges, even during disagreements. They warned that insulting language not only damages relationships but also risks escalating conflicts unnecessarily.
One court official remarked that the figures suggested that “sharp tongues are alive and well in the hub,” adding that continued reliance on insults reflected poorly on the values of respect embedded in Swazi tradition.
Court presidents have since urged residents to seek more constructive ways of resolving conflicts, cautioning that repeated offences could result in harsher penalties.
