Eswatini government dismisses King Mswati’s polygamy order rumours
The government says the article that quoted the king and all other related reports are not only an insult to the monarchy and the culture of Eswatini but a disgrace to journalism.
South African men were ready to cross the border after a post about King Mswati III ordering men to marry at least two wives or face jail went viral on social media during the weekend.
A statement was issued on Tuesday by spokesperson, Percy Simelane following a post from the Zambian Observer and various online publications. It states that the story titled “Marry more wives or face jail” is not only an insult to the monarchy and the culture of Eswatini but a disgrace to journalism.
” His majesty has not made any pronouncement to that effect as it has never been an issue raised by Emaswati. We will continue to appeal for morality, responsible behaviour and professionalism among journalists and the general public with access to social media. It would be unfortunate if journalism and social media are turned into character assassination platforms and springboards to ridicule individuals and leaders,” reads the statement.
On the other hand, social media users had a field day about the matter to a point that some had started making arrangements to relocate to Eswatini.
Check out some of these memes from Twitter:
I'm already packing my bags for Swaziland
#KINGMSWATI pic.twitter.com/hAm9GtIUQ2— DJ Ex (@TheRealDJEx) May 15, 2019
As per King Mswati's command, I’m off to Swaziland #SorryLove Cc @djtrevordee @Mbokane1 @sthebeworldwide 😂😂 asambeni pic.twitter.com/YkrJlj5GPl
— Radio & Club Dj🇿🇦 (@TboyMP) May 14, 2019
#Swaziland #kingmswati
All Roads leads to Kingdom of Eswatini pic.twitter.com/qtepWDhp1f— everythinng_fossil (@Evrythingfossil) May 14, 2019
When that statement was issued I took it upon myself that I get there in time, respect for King Mswati III 🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/UoLTSC119G
— Mzukulu kaFudu™️ 🇿🇦 (@therealSphe) May 15, 2019
King Swati from #swaziland has just blessed all Man with gifts 2 to 3 each Wow 🏰🙏🏾👑👌🏽 pic.twitter.com/HJrHsnXVjo
— Sizwe Mabaso 🖤💚💛👑 (@KingMntungwa) May 14, 2019
Am going to #Swaziland manje futhi…dankie king swati pic.twitter.com/rVd3dPDY8N
— Mr paid tweet (@point_solo) May 14, 2019
The government further demanded that the Zambian Observer produces the supposed statement allegedly issued by the king and retract this insult.