Manzini – The Southern Africa Nazarene University (SANU) has rejected reports alleging that Vice Chancellor Dr. Faith Mlotsa-Mngomezulu used university funds for a lavish birthday celebration. The statement comes after an online publication, Swaziland Democratic News, published the claims on January 15, 2026.

The Office of the Registrar described the report as “entirely false, malicious, and a clear act of character assassination.” SANU pointed out that the allegations rely on anonymous sources and “leaked images” that have not been produced or verified. The university says there is no documentary evidence, including bank statements or receipts, supporting the claim that institutional funds or a “black card” were used for a private event.

The report also alleged that Dr. Mlotsa-Mngomezulu splashed E10,000 cash to executive management, which SANU called a “sensationalist fabrication” and stated that strict financial auditing processes make such an occurrence impossible.

The timing of the allegations, during ongoing industrial action, was described by SANU as “a transparent attempt to weaken the University’s leadership position and distract from the ongoing legal and labour proceedings currently before the Industrial Court.” The university also criticized attempts to implicate Registrar Mr. Sipho Mhlanga, saying it shows the report is “agenda-driven.”

“Dr. Faith Mlotsa-Mngomezulu remains focused on navigating the University through its current financial and labour challenges. We will not be deterred by smear campaigns that seek to destroy reputations through hearsay and unverified gossip. The University is currently consulting with its legal team to explore a defamation suit against the parties responsible for the publication of these falsehoods,” the university stated.

SANU urged the public and media to treat the allegations with caution and to rely on official channels for accurate information about the institution.