By 
By Siphesihle Dlamini
Prime Minister Russell Dlamini provided insights into the ongoing investigation surrounding the leaks from the Eswatini Financial Intelligence Unit (EFIU).
The Prime Minister asserted that the unauthorized dissemination of sensitive documents was not merely a random occurrence but part of a calculated strategy to incite global economic resentment towards Eswatini.
In a recent address to the Editor’s Forum, Dlamini emphasized that contrary to the intended narrative of chaos, the leaked information revealed a robust and functioning financial system within the country, free from political meddling. The PM said the leaks have shown that our systems are operating efficiently.
“Fortunately for the country, the leak indicated that the country’s systems were functioning very well without any political interference,” he stated.
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Responding to inquiries about the status of the EFIU leaks, Dlamini confirmed that the government is treating the situation with the utmost seriousness.
He acknowledged that the leaks were orchestrated to inflict reputational damage on Eswatini, tarnishing its image on the international stage.
He said investigations to uncover the truth behind this incident and hold those responsible accountable are ongoing. “The Government instituted an investigation into the leaks to uncover the operations and eventual arrest of the perpetrators,” he added.
As part of its response, the government has launched an investigation into the matter, aiming to identify the source of the leaks and take appropriate action against the perpetrators.
The Ministry of Finance, through the office of the Minister, has collaborated with the Central Bank of Eswatini (CBE) to facilitate a comprehensive examination of the data breach.
Dlamini revealed that a consultancy firm has been engaged to assist in the investigation, and preliminary reports have already been produced.
Allegations suggest that over 890,000 internal records from the EFIU were leaked to the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), a prominent investigative media organization.
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These documents reportedly encompass a range of financial records associated with prominent politicians, business figures, and other high-profile individuals, detailing financial transactions purportedly conducted over six years starting in 2016.
The EFIU plays a critical role as the national centre for receiving and analyzing suspicious transaction reports and information related to money laundering and terrorist financing.
It serves as a vital resource for institutions like the Central Bank of Eswatini and local banks, which rely on the EFIU to assess transactions that have been flagged for further scrutiny.
Importantly, it is crucial to note that not all transactions reported to the EFIU are deemed fraudulent; many are part of a necessary oversight mechanism designed to maintain the integrity of the financial system.
