Ezulwini- The process of finalising the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF) Board remains incomplete following a dispute between the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and Business Eswatini over the eligibility of the organisation’s nominee.
Minister of Labour and Social Security Phila Buthelezi disclosed the impasse on Wednesday while announcing the incoming Board at SibaneSami Hotel, explaining that the ministry had rejected the nominee on the grounds that the individual had allegedly already served three terms.
Business Eswatini has challenged the decision, arguing that its nominee had served only two terms and was therefore eligible for another appointment.
Buthelezi said the matter remained unresolved and that the ministry would consult the Office of the Attorney General on the way forward.
The dispute leaves the employer representative position unfilled as the new Board prepares to assume its responsibilities. The minister also indicated that another Board position was yet to be filled, although he did not provide further details about that vacancy in his remarks reported at the announcement.
The outstanding appointments come at a time when the Fund is undergoing a leadership transition following challenges during the tenure of the previous Board.
Buthelezi urged the incoming members to work collectively and address institutional challenges, stressing that their appointment was for a period not exceeding three years.
He cautioned that members could be recalled before the end of that period, including after one or two years, depending on the circumstances.
The minister’s remarks placed emphasis on the responsibility of the new Board to operate within the Fund’s policies and fulfil its mandate.
Chief Lukhwabitsi of KaNdinda, announced as the new chairperson, acknowledged the responsibility facing the Board and called for unity and cooperation among its members.
He said the Board brought together representatives of different stakeholder groups, including workers, employers and government, making collaboration important in carrying out its duties.
The incoming Board comprises representatives drawn from different interests connected to the Fund. The unresolved employer nomination, however, means the process of establishing its full membership is still underway.
Meanwhile, Buthelezi apologized to His Majesty King Mswati III, whom he described as the pioneer of the Fund, as well as to ENPF members and other stakeholders for the challenges experienced during the outgoing Board’s tenure.
He said the priority was to address difficulties encountered in the institution’s operations and ensure that it continued to fulfil its responsibilities.
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