Convicted former Ngwempisi Member of Parliament (MP) Mthandeni Dube’s wife, Hazel, says she was not aware that her husband could be released from prison.
She revealed this when asked about reports that Dube may be among those to receive a royal pardon and possibly walk free next month.
Hazel said before the news was published in the media, she had no knowledge of the development.
APOLOGY TO THE KING
The reports come after Dube’s earnest apology to His Majesty King Mswati III during the Correctional Services Day commemorated on June 20.
The former legislator’s message of repentance was delivered by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Prince Simelane, who said Dube had requested him to act as his emissary (lincusa) to the king.
During the same event, the king announced the establishment of the Prerogative of Mercy Committee, which will assess inmates for pardon or community service. His Majesty stressed that genuine repentance should be met with mercy.
PREROGATIVE OF MERCY
Under Section 78(2) of the 2005 Constitution, the Prerogative of Mercy Committee consists of:
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Two members appointed by the King from the King’s Advisory Council
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The Attorney General
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The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
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A qualified medical practitioner recommended by the Minister of Health
The king has the authority to designate one member as chairperson.
BACKGROUND TO THE CASE
Dube was arrested in July 2021 along with former Hosea MP Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza. In June 2024, they were convicted of sedition, terrorism and murder charges.
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Dube was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment
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Mabuza received 25 years imprisonment
MIXED PUBLIC REACTION
News of Dube’s possible release has stirred mixed reactions among Emaswati.
Some celebrated his decision to apologise, praising him for putting his family first:
“A clever man changes his mind. Your family comes first—you took a good decision by apologising,” one supporter said.
Others noted that while some may judge him, his decision reflected courage and wisdom.
Meanwhile, some citizens said they had learned lessons from Dube’s experience:
“People turn against you when times are tough, so doing things for recognition does not reward the fighter,” another said.
