Lobamba, Parliament , 2 June, 2025
President of the Senate, Lindiwe Dlamini, praised Finance Committee Chairperson, Senator Tony Sibandze, for his ethical conduct in declaring a conflict of interest and recusing himself from chairing deliberations on the Alcohol and Tobacco Levy (Amendment) Bill, due to his business interests in alcohol sales. Senator Siphelele Mkhonta took over as chair.The Senate conducted a clause-by-clause review of both the Finance (Amendment) Bill and the Alcohol and Tobacco Levy (Amendment) Bill. Senator Sibandze conveyed concerns from the Eswatini Liquor Association, mainly representing small bottle store owners, about insufficient consultation and opposition to increased import levies.Business Eswatini also raised concerns over the bill’s definition of 'tobacco,' particularly regarding the inclusion of vaping products. Senator Sibandze emphasized the need to support local alcohol production to bolster livelihoods and the domestic economy.
Senator Tony Sibandze making a point before recusing himself from chairing the debate.
President of the Senate Lindiwe Dlamini and Senators listening with interest during the deliberations.
Engaged in a detailed clause-by-clause review of both the Finance (Amendment) Bill and the Alcohol and Tobacco Levy (Amendment) Bill.