Swazi Observer

FULL STORY

KING ORDERS ALL WIDOWS TO REMOVE MOURNING GOWNS

By Mbono Mdluli | 2018-04-11

Widows in the country have been ordered to remove their mourning gowns with immediate effect.

The order from His Majesty King Mswati III was communicated by Nkhanini Indvuna Lusendvo Fakudze yesterday through the national radio station, the Swaziland Broadcasting and Information Services (SBIS).

Fakudze is also acting Ludzidzini governor.

The removal of the mourning gowns is in respect of the forthcoming 50/50 celebrations, where Swazis will celebrate 50 years since the country attained its independence from Britain.

The celebrations slated for next Thursday will also mark the birthday of His Majesty King Mswati III, who will be turning 50 years.

“Women are expected to down their mourning gowns with immediate effect. This is done in preparation for the 50/50 celebrations. This is not a first as it was done even in 1968, when we got independence from the British. During the Silver Jubilee (in 1993), the same thing was done,” Fakudze said.

The indvuna further mentioned that those who lost their husbands before the 50/50 celebrations were not expected to wear mourning gowns even after the celebrations.

He clearly stated that even if a woman was to encounter the sad situation a few days before the celebrations, the order was that no mourning gowns should be worn.

“Widows should mourn with their hearts and wait for the rightful day on which they were to remove their gowns. They can be free to observe whatever custom they had adopted, according to their norms,” he said. Regarding those who would lose their husbands after the 50/50 celebrations, Fakudze said they were free to wear mourning gowns, as the celebrations will be over. The 50/50 celebrations are expected to be held at Mavuso Trade Centre in Manzini. However, Swazis from other regions will not be under pressure to go to Manzini to witness the celebrations.

Selected areas in the four regions would be used to witness the events happening in Manzini.

share story