BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MANZINI – A 25-year-old woman from Mbadlane has been fined E9 000 or two years’ imprisonment after being convicted under Eswatini’s Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act, in a case that highlights the growing enforcement of digital laws in the country.
Tengetile Msane appeared before the Manzini Magistrate’s Court on 10 April, where the matter was presided over by Magistrate Florence Msibi.
According to court records, the offence was committed on April 7 2026 in the Matsapha area, where Msane unlawfully used a social media platform to publish content that humiliated and insulted another individual (a male), thereby infringing on the person’s dignity.
She was subsequently charged under Section 17(1) of the Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act of 2022, with the matter formally opened on April 8 2026, the same day she was arrested.
During court proceedings, Msane was informed of her rights, including the right to legal representation, but elected to represent herself. She pleaded guilty to the charge, and the court accepted her plea, resulting in a conviction without the need for a full trial. The acceptance of the guilty plea allowed the matter to proceed directly to sentencing.
In mitigation, Msane pleaded for leniency, with the court noting that she is a young mother and currently unemployed. Magistrate Msibi took these factors into consideration before delivering sentence, ultimately imposing a fine of E9000 or two years’ imprisonment. The sentence reflected both the seriousness of the offence and the court’s consideration of her personal circumstances.
Court documents confirm that Msane paid the E9000 fine, leading to her release. A warrant of liberation was subsequently issued by the Manzini Magistrate’s Court, confirming that the sentence had been satisfied.
The case displays the importance of responsible use of social media platforms and adherence to the country’s cyber laws, which are designed to protect individuals from online abuse and safeguard personal dignity. It also serves as a reminder that as digital communication continues to grow, accountability and respect remain essential in ensuring that online spaces are used constructively and within the confines of the law.
