Mthandeni rules out return to politics
By Thokozani Mazibuko
Former Ngwempisi Member of Parliament Mthandeni Dube has ruled out any immediate return to politics following his release from the Matsapha Correctional Centre, saying his current focus is on rebuilding his life and spending time with his family.
Speaking in an interview with the Eswatini Daily News (EDN), Dube expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Mswati III for his mercy and leadership, describing him as “a King who forgives.”
The former legislator said he intends to use his time after release to reflect, rest, and reconnect with his loved ones after a challenging period of incarceration.
“I have no plan to run for any parliamentary seat soon. I just want to rest and fix my life with my family,” Dube said.
“I thank His Majesty for being a King who forgives. The others who are left behind in prison know the process to receive pardon,” he added.
Dube was released last week after serving part of an 18-year sentence handed down in July 2024.
His release was part of a group of inmates conditionally freed by His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) under the supervision of Commissioner General Phindile Lomakhosini Dlamini.
The former MP, who was arrested on 25 July 2021 alongside Hosea MP Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza, had been convicted under the Suppression of Terrorism Act for offences related to the 2021 pro-democracy unrest.
His release follows weeks of administrative review and internal clemency processes within the correctional system.
During the release ceremony, Commissioner General Dlamini reminded all freed inmates that their release is conditional and subject to continuous supervision by HMCS.
“Their release is conditional. They must be on their best behaviour, respect the rule of law, and refrain from engaging in acts that could lead them back to prison,” Dlamini said.
She further warned that any violation of these terms would result in the immediate revocation of their release and return to custody.
Since walking free, Dube has maintained a humble and reserved tone, saying he wishes to live peacefully and contribute positively to his community.
“I am grateful to be home and to see my family again. This experience has taught me a lot about life, humility, and forgiveness,” he said softly.
Dube also urged those still serving sentences to remain patient and follow the proper procedures if seeking clemency.
“The process is clear, and I believe those who are eligible will receive the same mercy when the time is right,” he said.
His remarks come amid ongoing discussions about reconciliation and rehabilitation within Eswatini’s correctional system.
Officials say conditional releases are part of broader efforts to reintegrate rehabilitated inmates while encouraging discipline, responsibility, and respect for the law.
For now, Dube says politics is not on his agenda.
“I am focused on peace, family, and rebuilding my life. That is all that matters to me right now,” he concluded.
