Swaziland facing social changes: Mswati
April 19, 2005, 16:15
King Mswati II of Swaziland says the drafting of the country's constitution process has proven that the nation upholds the monarchy. Speaking at his 37th birthday celebrations at the Manzini Stadium today, Mswati admitted that the country is facing social challenges, poverty and the HIV and Aids pandemic.
Swazis came in their thousands to be the king's guests. This despite criticism by civil groupings and other international observers that the king is not putting his country's interests first. They claim thousands of citizens survive on food aid and international donors.
In attendance were kings and dignitaries from various countries in Africa. In his address, Mswati said his policy is to rule his country through consultation with all stakeholders. The country is in a process of establishing a fund to eliminate poverty, he added.
The king also encouraged the nation to continue adhering to their culture and tradition as it has been before and after the country's independence in 1968. He, nonetheless, did not indicate as to when the new constitution will be adopted.
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