STATEMENT BY THE RT HON PRIME MINISTER
AMBROSE MANDVULO DLAMINI
AT THE DECLARATION OF ASSETS TO THE HUMAN RIGHTS AND INTEGRITY COMMISSION
AT THE CABINET OFFICES
MONDAY 01 APRIL 2019
Chairperson of the Human Rights and Integrity Commission
Commissioners
Senior Government officials
Members of the media
Good afternoon
May I welcome you all to the Cabinet Offices for this important undertaking of adhering to a Constitutional Provision aimed at enforcing a leadership code of conduct to combat corruption at all leadership levels.
Today I am declaring my assets to the Human Rights and Integrity Commission in fulfillment of Section 241 of the Constitution where the Prime Minister and people in leadership positions are expected and directed to declare their assets and liabilities.
As head of His Majesty’s Government, I have the obligation to lead by example to ensure transparency of the office I occupy and that of my person in conforming to the principles of common good and that of the Constitution. This is a significant Constitutional provision that helps to increase transparency and trust in leadership, preventing conflict of interest and the acquisition of illicit assets or attainment of wealth through corrupt practices.
His Majesty’s Government is unyielding in the quest to rid the country of corruption. The effects of corruption in society are well documented and researched. Corruption is without doubt among the principal reasons of economic stagnation and decline across nations. It robs Governments of revenue that could be directed to boost areas of productivityand social welfare. It takes away the ability of business to innovate and bring new products to society. In essence, it chases away potential investors, be they foreign or domestic, and worsens poverty.
As a Government, we are determined to ensure that all public resources are not used to illegally profit individuals but for public benefit in targeted areas that have the best potential to boost economic growth and welfare of the citizens of the country. We have put together the necessary structures and policies that will bite hard on criminals and make Eswatini a no-go-area for the corrupt.
Last month, Government through the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs established an Assets Recovery Fund in line with the Prevention of Organised Crime Act.
Through this Fund, proceeds of criminal activity which include corruption will be traced and forfeited to the State.This is an additional way of fighting corruption by ensuring that the corrupt are deprived of the benefits and proceeds of crime.
The process of declaring assets, benefits and liabilities to the Human Rights and Integrity Commission is therefore important for all appointed and elected public officials as it helpsto enhance integrity and show commitment to the rule of law. Good governance calls upon leaders to be accountable to the people they represent and serve.
I take this opportunity to encourage all those obligated to declare their assets by the Constitution, to adhere to this provision and submit to the Human Rights Commission. This process is not voluntary but mandatory.
My gratitude goes to the Human Rights Commission for continuing with this noble task of holding public officials accountable. We look forward to working closely in processes that promote good governance.
Thank you.