Mbabane: Acting Prime Minister Themba Nhlanganiso Masuku has appointed Senior Magistrate Nonhlanhla Dlamini as Coroner to investigate the circumstances leading to his death. This appointment is with immediate effect.
In a press conference held at the cabinet offices on Monday evening, Masuku said the unfortunate death of young (Thabani Nkomonye) is a tragedy that cannot just ignored.
Masuku said the events of the past few days have not only been grave and lamentable but have also served to stir emotions at a time when the situation demands that the nation be united in taking this country forward in the midst of challenges confronting the country as whole.
The Acting PM reiterated that Government respects the right to life for all emaSwati and is determined to get to the bottom of this matter and unveil the truth.
“We understand the emotions that have been triggered by these serious allegations against the police and we appeal for public patience and support for the Coroner as she investigates this matter, whose report will be made public,” he said.
Masuku revealed that he had personally spoken to the father of the deceased to express his personal and Government’s condolences and to ask him to convey the same to the entire family. Government will continue to meet and engage the family during this difficult moment.
The Acting Prime Minister said the Social Welfare department under the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office will avail the necessary support to the family of the deceased.
On another note, Masuku said Government is equally concerned about the unprofessional conduct of some police officers as depicted in a video recorded last week. He said he had instructed the National Commissioner of Police to fast track a disciplinary process against these police officers as their behaviour goes against the ethical conduct expected from the Police Service at all times.
“We condemn the overall increase in violence and violent crimes such as murder and robberies across the country. The emotional strain caused by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our economy cannot be acceptable justification for the increase in violent crimes” he said.
He appealed to all emaSwati to work closely with Government and the Police to rid the country of the scourge of crime and bring perpetrators to book.
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