MANZINI – The Municipal Council of Manzini has moved to distance itself from the arrest of its Director of Corporate Services, stating that the matter relates to the official’s previous employment and does not involve the municipality.
The council said it learned through the media that Simphiwe Charles Malaza had been arrested by the Royal Eswatini Police Service and released on bail.
According to the charge sheet, the alleged offences occurred between August 2006 and March 2026. It is alleged that after leaving government employment, Malaza unlawfully continued to receive and withdraw salary payments from the government, resulting in losses exceeding E3.7 million. 
Malaza has been remanded in custody after appearing in court on the allegations.
In a statement, the Municipal Council of Manzini said it was concerned about the development and how it may impact on the good repute of the Council.
“The Council notes that the matter relates to the affairs of the affected employee’s previous employer, and does not relate to the Municipal Council of Manzini,” read the statement.
The council said it respects the legal process, in particular the presumption of innocence, and would investigate and take appropriate action once proceedings are concluded.
The council further stated that it was keenly aware of its duty of accountability to its ratepayers and other stakeholders.
