CONTRARY to reports flying on social media, King Mswati of Swaziland says he never ordered men in his kingdom to marry more women or face jail sentences.
The King conveyed his displeasure in press statement to journalist signed by palace spokesman Percy Simelane.
The social media was Tuesday awash with alleged directive by the King who himself has 15 wives to his kinsmen to begin to marry more women or face jail sentences because there are more single women in the country.
He said: “In the wake of several poisonous reports published in some foreign newspapers, social media platforms and other forums purported to be an official statement by His Majesty, King Mswati III, Government wishes to state the following:
“The current dispatch titled ‘Marry more wives or face jail,’ quoting the King is not only an insult to the monarchy but a disgrace to journalism.
“His Majesty has not made any pronouncement to that effect as it has never been an issue raised by Emaswati.
“We will continue to appeal for morality, responsible behaviour and professionalism among journalists and the general public with access to the social media.
“It would be unfortunate if journalism and the social media are turned into character assassination platforms and springboards to ridicule individuals and leaders.”