Exiled political activist Mandla Hlatshwayo has raised an alarm, accusing the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Prince Scalo, of leading a plot to assassinate him.

Hlatshwayo alleges that he has received several "credible" reports that Prince Scalo has mentioned his name in various government circles, threatening to "deal with" or eliminate him.

Exiled political activist Mandla Hlathswayo 

Hlatshwayo, a political refugee under the protection of the South African government and the United Nations, has reported these threats to the South African authorities. Hlatshwayo believes these threats are not general as they are specific and are not just directed at him but point to a broader plan to destabilise the leadership of the Mass Democratic Movement and political parties in the country.

Hlatshwayo stated that when he first received intelligence about the threat to his life, he did not take it seriously, dismissing it as mere rumours. However, after receiving multiple urgent messages from individuals and networks close to the prince, he began to take the warnings more seriously and subsequently increased his security awareness measures. Hlatshwayo is appealing to all leaders in the MDM and political parties to raise their security posture and awareness.

“I am receiving credible reports that the Prince sees me as a significant threat to peace and stability in the country and believes I am intent on reviving a struggle he claims has lost its relevance and credibility. The prince is boasting that he will finish the struggle. I am disappointed but not surprised by the Prince’s naive and underdeveloped thinking that political differences can only be resolved through the murder or execution of opponents. He probably believes that the royal family owns the country and its people; therefore, we have no right to demand radical reforms or challenge the royal hegemony," Hlathswayo said when contacted for comments. 

"These reports clearly define the character of the Prince and raise questions about his poor upbringing and how he thinks he can achieve relevancy and significance through bloodshed. The country is facing multiple crises in education, health, corruption and poor service delivery, escalating levels of poverty and unemployment. The country is in a mess, and Prince Sicalo would do himself a good favour if he focused on addressing the chronic grievances of the Swazi nation," continued Hlatshwayo.

The Swazi Bridge made various efforts to contact the Prince without success. His phone was not available when called. Meanwhile, Hlathswayo has promised to call a press conference to talk about the threat to his life.