ESWATINI MP ORDERED TO PAY BACK R392,500 TO WOMEN’S COOPERATIVE AFTER FRAUD SCANDAL
Allen Vilane, the Madlangemphisi Member of Parliament (MP), has been ordered by the High Court of Eswatini to repay R392,500 to the Mpofu Multi-Purpose Co-operative. This follows allegations that the MP, also the Director of Mpumalanga Construction (Pty) Ltd, deceived members of the cooperative, convincing them to purchase a truck without disclosing that the vehicle was still under a bank loan.
The truck, which the MP claimed would support the cooperative’s operations, was repossessed by the bank after Vilane failed to settle the outstanding debt. The court’s judgment, issued on April 21, 2021, directs the Deputy Sheriff to attach and auction movable goods belonging to Vilane and his company to recover the money owed to the cooperative.
“You are hereby directed to attach and take into execution the movable goods of Allen Vilane, an adult liSwati male of Mhlume in the Lubombo District, and that of Mpumalanga Construction (PTY) Ltd… to cause to be realized by public auction for the sum of E392,500 (Three Hundred and Ninety-Two Thousand Five Hundred Emalangeni),” reads the writ of execution.
Members of the Mpofu Multi-Purpose Co-operative, primarily women striving to support their livelihoods, have been left financially strained by Vilane’s actions. Allegedly, the funds they invested to purchase the truck were misused by the MP to campaign for his seat in Parliament.
Despite the court ruling, Vilane has reportedly been evasive and failed to pay the women even after receiving allowances and back payments alongside other MPs. Efforts to obtain a comment from the MP proved unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
The cooperative members, who relied on the truck to enhance their business operations, have expressed frustration and disappointment over the ordeal. The repossession of the vehicle has not only disrupted their livelihoods but also eroded trust in the institutions meant to support grassroots economic initiatives.
This case highlights broader concerns about accountability among public officials in Eswatini. Vilane’s alleged misuse of funds to further his political ambitions reflects systemic issues within governance, where individuals in power exploit their positions at the expense of ordinary citizens. The women of the cooperative, who placed their trust and resources in the MP’s promises, now face significant financial setbacks as a result of his actions.
The Deputy Sheriff’s involvement in attaching Vilane’s assets marks a critical step toward justice, but questions remain about whether the cooperative members will ever fully recover their losses. The situation also underscores the need for stricter oversight and transparency in dealings involving public officials and community organizations.
For the women of Mpofu Multi-Purpose Co-operative, the court ruling offers some hope, but the delay in restitution has left many disillusioned. Their plight serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by small community groups and the impact of corruption and mismanagement on grassroots development.
As the legal process unfolds, the cooperative members and their supporters will be watching closely, demanding accountability and a resolution that ensures their rights and investments are protected. The case against Vilane is not just about recovering stolen funds—it is about restoring trust in leadership and demonstrating that no one, regardless of their position, is above the law.
