Ex-MP Mthandeni, 11 others walk free from jail
By Thokozani Mazibuko
Former Ngwempisi Member of Parliament, Mthandeni Dube, has walked free from the Matsapha Correctional Centre after serving part of his 18-year sentence imposed in July 2024.
Dube’s release forms part of a group of 11 inmates granted conditional release by His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) as part of ongoing rehabilitation and reintegration efforts.
Announcing the release at Matsapha on Tuesday, HMCS Commissioner General Phindile Lomakhosini Dlamini said Dube and the other inmates were being conditionally released under specific behavioural expectations.
“Their release is conditional, and they are expected to be on their best behaviour, respect the rule of law, and not commit offences. Any breach of these conditions will result in their immediate return to serve their jail terms,” the Commissioner General said.
Dube, alongside fellow legislator Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza, was arrested on July 25, 2021, during a period of widespread pro-democracy unrest that followed the death of a university law student.
The two lawmakers were later charged under Eswatini’s Suppression of Terrorism Act, accused of inciting violence through public speeches calling for democratic reforms, including the election of the prime minister.
His release follows weeks of speculation surrounding internal royal clemency processes and procedural reviews within the correctional system.
Reports indicate that Dube’s freedom comes after administrative assessments and recommendations within HMCS, supported by rehabilitation and conduct evaluations during his incarceration.
Commissioner General Dlamini noted that the correctional service prioritizes discipline, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society as part of its mandate to transform offenders into law-abiding citizens.
“Our correctional system is not only about punishment but also about rehabilitation and reformation. When inmates show remorse and willingness to change, we consider them for conditional release in line with the law,” she said.
Other inmates released alongside Dube include Boycie Gama (57), Nkosinathi Fondo Matsaba (45), Michael Mavuso (55), Joseph Moyane (49), Mfanyana Mabuza, Khuzwayo Khumalo (75), Aaron Msibi (80), Cabi Mabuza (60), Sitile Dlamini (42), and Catherine Hlatjwayo (53).
Dube’s return to public life is expected to reignite discussions on national unity and reconciliation. His supporters view his release as a potential turning point for peacebuilding, while authorities emphasize adherence to the law and respect for national institutions.
Commissioner General Dlamini concluded by urging all released inmates to embrace a new beginning:
“We urge them to be responsible citizens, to contribute positively to their communities, and to uphold the laws of the Kingdom of Eswatini.”
Dube is expected to reunite with his family and community in Ngwempisi in the coming days.