Mayiwane Member of Parliament (MP) Sicelo Dlamini has attributed the downfall of imprisoned former lawmaker Mthandeni Dube to the intoxicating effects of fame.
He warned that lawmakers like MPs who prioritise popularity over principle were bound to lose their way. Speaking in an interview after the Dissemination Meeting on the Correctional Assessment Report held at the UN House on Friday, Dlamini offered a sobering reflection on the dangers of political acclaim, using Dube’s story as a cautionary tale for those in public office.
Dube, the former Ngwempisi Inkhundla MP , is currently serving a 58-year prison sentence after being convicted of terrorism, sedition and murder. The charges stem from his alleged role in the political unrest that engulfed Eswatini in June 2021—one of the most significant episodes of civil unrest in the country’s history. Alongside Hosea MP Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza, Dube was accused of inciting protests that led to widespread violence and destruction.
Reflecting on Dube’s fall from grace, Dlamini told the Sunday Observer that he believed the former lawmaker was swept up by the wave of adoration from the public, which ultimately clouded his judgment.
“As an MP, when the public applauds you and sings your praises for your views or your stance on certain issues, do not be swayed from doing your core job and doing what is right or correct just so you remain popular,” Dlamini cautioned.
He explained that the lure of fame can become a dangerous trap, especially for inexperienced legislators who may be tempted to make decisions aimed solely at preserving their standing with the masses.
“Fame becomes a trap whereby an inexperienced legislator can find it difficult to break free. MPs must always strive to be just in their duties, even when it makes them unpopular,” he stressed.
Dlamini emphasised that true leadership demands integrity and the courage to uphold the truth, regardless of how unpopular it may be at times. “People will always appreciate it when you stick to the truth even when it’s difficult to swallow. Do not be caught up where you find yourself having to please the masses just to receive their accolades or approval,” he added.
Turning to the issue of Dube’s current imprisonment, Dlamini expressed confidence that the former lawmaker has learnt from his mistakes.
He pointed out that once an individual demonstrates genuine remorse and rehabilitation, it no longer serves any meaningful purpose to keep them incarcerated.
“I have no doubt that Dube has learnt from his errors. There is no point in keeping someone in prison when they have been rehabilitated and are remorseful,” Dlamini said.
The Mayiwane MP also extended his gratitude to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Prince Simelane, for conveying Dube’s message of apology to King Mswati III. During the recent 17th Correctional Services Day in Matsapha, Prince Simelane caused a national stir by kneeling before the monarch to deliver Dube’s expression of regret for his role in the 2021 unrest.
During the Correctional Day after receiving Dube’s apology through the minister, His Majesty, in his speech, emphasised on a transformative programme that will allow inmates nearing the completion of their sentences to fulfil their remaining time through community service.
He stated that the correctional facility would collaborate with a team focused on the prerogative of mercy, which would review the sentences of offenders and determine whether they could serve the remainder of their sentences at home. According to the king, this was the team’s objective for the year.
He added that once the programme was developed and ready, it would advance to the next stage.
The king encouraged members of the society to embrace and welcome them back into their respective communities, allowing them to begin their new lives.
The king noted that reports indicated that rehabilitated individuals were acknowledging their past mistakes while receiving care and that the officers were demonstrating professionalism in their interactions with the offenders.
Eswatini Observer Press Reader
