The Editor
via email: [email protected]
Dear Sir:
Aid to the poor and the needy nations of the world has always been overtly and covertly in aid of a political and economic agenda set by the rich and powerful nations. During the post war US sponsored Marshall Plan for the war torn Europe, through the post colonial World Bank and the IMF sponsored aid to the African continent including Swaziland, aid was very often given to consolidate Western self interests in maintaining political and economic stronghold of the former colonial masters, particularly in the African continent ravaged by famine. Notwithstanding the questionable historical use of aid around the world, South Africa should make aid to Swaziland core to good governance, the rule of law, respect for human rights, the fight against corruption, freedom of speech and press. Any aid or donation without these considerations, and based purely on goodwill alone will amount to further perpetuation of the unsavoury social, political and economic conditions that have brought about the discontent within the Swazi Kingdom.
Progressively, President Zuma should establish an Advisory Council of Elders in South Africa, who are well conversant with the rule by monarchy, aristocracy and democracy, with the express mandate of initiating a political dialogue with the Swazi Monarch and his Council on how the prerogatives of the Monarchy and Aristocracy should be harmonised with the fundamental principles and the values of Democracy. It is imperative that this process become inclusive of all the role players in Swaziland.
Mr Ben Skosana
IFP Member of Parliament
House Chairperson of the National Assembly