The King of Swaziland, King Mswati III, has issued a decree mandating that men must marry a minimum of five wives or face imprisonment. In his proclamation, the King assured men that the government would cover the costs of marriage ceremonies and provide housing for each wife. Those who oppose this directive, whether man or woman, risk a life sentence.
The intention behind this order is to address the gender imbalance in the country, ensuring that every woman has a husband. King Mswati III highlighted the seriousness of the issue, noting the surplus of women in Swaziland, which is known for its large population of unmarried individuals.
The decision to enforce polygamous marriages comes amidst concerns about the increasing number of unmarried women and a shortage of men in the country. King Mswati III, who himself has 15 wives and 25 children, follows a lineage of monarchs known for their extensive polygamous relationships.
Despite the controversy surrounding this decree, it reflects the King’s attempt to manage societal challenges within Swaziland’s cultural framework.
Avantmalawi.com