By Simon Shabangu | 2021-08-26

Bathany HIS Majesty King Mswati III has appointed Lieutenant General Mashikilisana Moses Fakudze, otherwise known within the regiment as Hulumende, the Acting Army Commander of Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF). The appointment of the acting army commander was announced by the National Defence Officer, Prince Hlangusempi, at the army headquarters yesterday. The Prince was joined by Tindvuna Themba Ginindza and Saddam Magongo when delivering the King’s message to the nation and to the senior officers of the army. Also present were Lieutenant General Tsembeni Magongo and Under Secretary Sanele Malambe who is acting Principal Secretary in the ministry of defence. The 58-year-old seasoned member of the Umbutfo Defence Force, was first introduced to the senior officers from across the leadership structures before he was officially announced to the media. When addressing the media, Prince Hlangusempi said His Majesty the King and Commander-in-Chief has commanded all ranks of the army to give Fakudze all the necessary support as he carries out the duties assigned to him. “His Majesty has, however, stressed that this appointment is on acting basis as you all know the process of appointing a full-time army commander. His Majesty said once the situation has improved in as far as the COVID-19 prevalence is concerned the necessary procedures of appointing a full-time commander will be followed. “The King also stated that in his acting capacity, Fakudze, is expected to carry out all the duties of an army commander while serving in this position. He will not just be in office but will do all that is required of this important position,” he said. The Defence Chief Officer reminded the army that the appointment follows the resignation of the Army Commander Jeffrey Gumbuzumlambo Tshabalala. “Because this is a critical position, which could not be left vacant as we all know the current situation in the country. His Majesty the King said the work of the army could not be left without a leader because we all know that the army needs to guard and protect the country. “It is important that everyone supports Fakudze and the army at large,” he added. Fakudze has served the army for 39 years and has risen within the ranks until he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General by His Majesty in 2018. The acting army commander who is a member of the Inqaba Regiment, was first introduced to the senior officers of the army who were first addressed and given the King’s message by the Prince and Tsembeni Magongo moments before the media briefing.

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