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GOVERNMENT PRESS STATEMENT

NO:8/2011

RE: PRESS STATEMENT ON THE INTENDED PROTEST

ACTION BY CERTAIN FORMATIONS IN THE COUNTRY

His Majesty'S Government has learned that certain

formations in the country intend to stage a protest action on
12-14 April 2011.

Government respects the right to freedom of expression as

enshrined in our constitution. It recognizes that this is an
important and inviolable right. Equally it has always been
an integral part of Swazi culture and tradition to resolve any
differences in a peaceful and productive manner and in
conformity with the prevailing legislation and agreed

procedures.

In this regard, and with a view to ensuring that differences

of view are resolved in an orderly and law-abiding manner,
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certain legislation and procedures Ilave been drawn up and

implemented in what has been hitherto a harmonious spirit.

Our laws are very clear on the procedures that need to be

followed by persons who have any grievances. These laws
also prescribe tile process leading to the approval of strikes
and protest action. Above all, any strike or protest action
must I:>e registered and given permission in accordance with
the law.

Government has now learned that the formations in question

have not complied with the procedures and notices
prescribed by the relevant legislation. This then renders the
protest action illegal. We do not, therefore, expect any
individual to participate in any such proposed protest action.

Government accordingly strongly warns those organizing,

and intending to participate in, the protest action to refrain
from doing so and continue with their normal day-to-day

business. Government requests the private sector, and

requires the public sector, to operate the no·work-no"pay
policy.

Government wishes to take this opportunity to reassure the

entire Nation that it is totally committed to its constitutional

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mandate and obligation to provide the best protection for
our citizens at all times thus sustaining a peaceful and

productive society.

It is also fully committed to participating constructively in

the Social Dialogue. In this context, a petition was received

approximately two weeks ago, the contents of which have

been attended to by the relevant Ministers, whose Ministries

Ilave proceeded with discussions with the unions on each of

the issues and we are confident that satisfactory progress
can be made. This process should be allowed to run its
course with no necessity for protest action.

It is the duty of the State to maintain the rule of law. As

Government we cannot tolerate a state of lawlessness,
particularly at this time when our economy requires all of us
to perform at our maximum, even to be prepared to make
sacrifices.

Government wishes, therefore, to emphasise that any such

unlawful action will not be allowed and will be viewed as

representing a threat to the law·abiding members of our

society and will be dealt with in accordance with the laws of
the country.

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f,is Majesty's Govemment therefore assures the Nation that

those pl'oceeding with their normal business 011 the said
dates 5hall be entirely free to do so,

Government will ensure that the country remains peaceful.

To this end, the security forces will be deployed to maintain
law and order.

DR. B,SIBUSISO DLAMINI

PRIME MINISTER

7 April 2011