Eswatini MPs Debate Church Regulation Policy

Mbabane East MP Welcome Dlamini has stated that only Jesus can regulate churches in Eswatini, questioning the government's plans to regulate churches. During a debate on the ministry of home affairs' second quarter budget performance report in Parliament, Dlamini asked who had the moral authority to regulate religion. He cited an example of a gathering at Mandvulo Grand Hall where people were preaching without interference.

Dlamini's sentiments were echoed by other MPs, including Mhlambanyatsi MP Dr Bonginkhosi Dlamini, who acknowledged challenges in churches but emphasized the need for registration rather than regulation. Dr Dlamini noted that when church leaders die, disputes often arise over succession, leading to court battles. He questioned whether such disputes occurred after Jesus' death, highlighting the complexities of regulating spiritual matters.

Lobamba MP Michael Masilela and Somntongo MP Sandile Nxumalo also shared concerns about government regulation of churches. Masilela referenced a phrase, "Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone," emphasizing the need for caution. Nxumalo argued that the church cannot be censored by the State and that people have the right to worship freely, citing the Constitution's guarantees of freedom of association and assembly.

Nxumalo further emphasized that churches have always existed and that challenges such as splits and disputes are not new. He expressed concerns that forcing churches to register legally might overlap with government authority, given the church's existing freedoms. Nxumalo also suggested that the government should focus on addressing criminal acts rather than regulating church affairs.

Chief Ngalonkhulu and Nkhaba MP Hope Shiba also raised concerns about the government's approach to regulating churches. Ngalonkhulu asked if the ministry was satisfied with the current state of churches, particularly given the prevalence of court battles over succession. Shiba suggested that the ministry should examine the issue of churches from a technical perspective and avoid causing challenges for Christians.

Acting Minister of Home Affairs Pholile Shakantu responded to the MPs' concerns, clarifying that the government would not regulate the spiritual aspect of churches but focus on administrative matters. Shakantu emphasized that all freedoms have limitations and that the government aims to balance individual rights with the need for regulation.

The debate highlights the complexities of regulating churches in Eswatini, with MPs emphasizing the need for caution and respect for freedom of worship. The government's policy on church regulation remains under development, with the ministry expected to consider the concerns raised by MPs.

Key points

• The Eswatini government plans to regulate churches, focusing on administrative aspects rather than spiritual matters.