Mandla Monty Nkosi: Topling Swazi King and Forming Government of National Unity

Blossom of Thought

In light of the recent Swaziland massacre, many believe the monarchy has no place in future democratic Swaziland they envision. We speak to Virginia-based accountant and activist Mandla Monty Nkosi on his vision for how Swaziland can transition into the new democratic dispensation. Born and raised in Swaziland, Monty obtained his Association of Accounting Technician (AAT) Level 1 certificate from the Swaziland College of Technology. He moved to the United States of America to study at the University of the District of Columbia, where he obtained his undergraduate degree in Accounting and Finance. He has since been working as an accountant in the United States, lending his skills to multiple multi-billion-dollar entities.

Highlights:

Þ Monty takes a strong stance against the institution of a monarchy in its totality. He asserts that having somebody born into a position does not make sense in present-day society.

Þ On culture, Monty suggests Swazis distinguish ceremonial events from culture and then choose what they can do away with. For example, the way that we raise our children can be attributed to our culture, which we ought to be proud of. However, there are heinous activities associated with ceremonies. Umhlanga, Lusekwane, Incwala are some of the ceremonies he believes Swazis can toss.

Þ Asked on his take on an armed struggle, Monty stresses that he is opposed to it because of the precedence it sets. He cautions that we should learn from countries where peace has not necessarily followed the revolution.

Þ Monty proposes that a Government of National Unity (GONU) in waiting be formed immediately to inspire the confidence of the international community that there will not be a power vacuum when the current monarch is removed. He believes that the monarch’s unseating is imminent: “King Mswati is technically finished, he is in a coffin, we just need to put the nail on the coffin!”

Þ On his role in GONU, Monty feels his skills would be best leveraged on a consultancy basis, where he would work towards creating livable wage jobs and building sustainable domestic economies in Swaziland’s rural areas. Should Swazis call him home to serve, however, he is prepared to heed that call.

Þ Monty has a strong message for Independence Day on 6 September: “Independence Day is not worth celebrating. It should be boycotted year after year!”

He also opines why the US Marine has descended in Swaziland.

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