“Tell Me No More” by Senzenjani Lukhele
Swazi author Senzenjani Lukhele wrote Tell Me No More , which was released in 1986. The story focuses on the rules of adoption and a child’s rights through adoption. It follows Gugu, who is thrown out of her home by her father after being accused of adultery and insulting the village chief. In fact, Gugu’s supposed crime was speaking out of turn and giving an opinion during a discussion. However, the chief’s incensed messenger gives a false report to the chief and his council; Gugu’s father, Cele, is one of the council members. To Gugu’s shock and her mother’s, Cele disowns her, calls her a “bastard,” and orders her out of his household. Gugu denies the allegations in vain, and Cele refuses to relent, dismissing her account of what really happened. La-Mncina is forced to reveal the truth of Gugu’s paternity before sending her to her older brother in Manzini. Only after Gugu leaves does the chief inform Cele that he violated the rules of adoption by not consult...
