Former Ngwempisi Member of Parliament (MP) Mthandeni Dube’s colleagues, former indvuna yenkhundla and bucopho, have praised His Majesty King Mswati III for accepting Dube’s apology.
Dube is among inmates expected to benefit from an imminent royal pardon, as the Prerogative of Mercy Committee has finalised the list of individuals to be released.
The duo expressed joy that Dube could soon return to his family and community. Their optimism follows an extraordinary gesture by Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Prince Simelane, who publicly conveyed Dube’s apology to His Majesty during this year’s Correctional Services Day celebration.
Former indvuna yenkhundla Majaha Ngwenya said the king’s decision reflected compassion and a deep understanding of his people’s emotions.
“The king has displayed humanity and shown love to the people of Ngwempisi, who were also upset over Dube’s arrest. We are very excited to see His Majesty accept the apology. This was a great step indeed. Dube is a man known for respect, and we would be delighted to have him back, especially since he has some unfinished projects. This is wonderful news for our community,” Ngwenya said.
He added that reuniting Dube with his loved ones would restore stability to his household and constituency.
“Everyone deserves a decent life with their family. Seeing him return to his children and community would be great,” he said.
As the Prerogative of Mercy Committee prepares to announce its final list, Ngwenya also said the people of Ngwempisi await Dube’s return with open arms, viewing it as a moment of reconciliation between a leader and the community that once placed its trust in him.
Former bucopho Simo Mabuza shared similar sentiments, noting that Dube’s gesture and the king’s forgiveness illustrated the importance of accountability and reconciliation.
“When a man realises his mistakes, he takes action,” Mabuza said. “We are happy that the king has considered his apology. His Majesty has shown true leadership and love for his people. As the people of Ngwempisi, we are very happy for Dube.”
Dube, who represented Ngwempisi in the House of Assembly, was arrested in July 2021 alongside former Hosea MP Bacede Mabuza.
Their arrest came in the wake of nationwide protests, which saw violent clashes, destruction of infrastructure, and several fatalities. The then MPs were accused of inciting unrest and charged under the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008 and the Sedition and Subversive Activities Act of 1938.
Both lawmakers were denied bail and remained in custody throughout lengthy court proceedings. On July 15, 2024, they were convicted, with Dube receiving an 18-year prison sentence and Bacede Mabuza handed 25 years.
