The youngest of the recently released inmates is 15 years old, while the oldest is 74, His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) has revealed.
This was disclosed by HMCS Deputy Public Relations Officer, Assistant Chief Officer Baphelele Kunene, yesterday.
Kunene gave a breakdown of the 464 inmates released from correctional facilities under the prerogative of mercy of His Majesty King Mswati III.
Of the total, 443 were males and 21 females. Eight were below the age of 18, while 121 were between 18 and 35 years. The majority, 335 inmates, were aged 36 and above.
Kunene urged the younger inmates, in particular, to uphold respect, discipline, and responsibility as they reunite with their families and communities.
He said the release should mark a new beginning—a chance to rebuild their lives through good conduct and constructive participation in society.
Communities urged to support
On Monday, Commissioner General Phindile LaMakhosini Dlamini appealed to society to welcome and support the reintegration of released inmates instead of judging them for past mistakes.
She said the department believed the inmates had been rehabilitated and were ready to contribute to a peaceful, safe, and inclusive society.
Directing her words to the inmates, Dlamini advised them to remain law-abiding citizens and work hard to never break the law again.
Rehabilitation over punishment
Kunene explained that the release was part of His Majesty’s ongoing commitment to rehabilitation, restorative justice, and strengthening families and communities.
“It also reflects the broader vision of Correctional transformation, which seeks to emphasise rehabilitation over punishment and provide second chances for those who have demonstrated readiness to change,” he said.
He further encouraged young people to value this opportunity, stressing the importance of family support, traditional structures, faith-based organisations, and wider community involvement in easing reintegration.
Kunene emphasised collective responsibility in helping released inmates overcome stigma, rebuild their lives, and become productive members of society.
The HMCS reaffirmed its commitment to aftercare and rehabilitation programmes aimed at reducing re-offending and empowering former inmates to build livelihoods.
Royal pardon benefit
Apart from the 464 released, another 2 346 inmates had their sentences reduced by six months as directed by His Majesty.
A BREAKDOWN OF RELEASED INMATES
Males: 443
Females: 21
Total: 464
Below 18 years: 8
18 – 35 years: 121
36 years & above: 335
Oldest inmate: 74 years
Youngest inmate: 15 years
