BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Beneficiaries of His Majesty King Mswati III’s recent Prerogative of Mercy have appealed to the nation to support their reintegration into society, warning that without community backing they risk falling back into the cycle of crime and incarceration.
The appeal comes after His Majesty ordered the release of 464 offenders—comprising 443 males and 21 females—during the Correctional Services Day commemorations on 20 June 2025 at the HMCS College in Matsapha. The directive, announced through the Prerogative of Mercy Committee under His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS), was widely hailed as a gesture of compassion and restorative justice.
“We Need a Second Chance”
Expressing gratitude to the King for granting them freedom, the beneficiaries stressed that they now face the reality of rebuilding their lives in a society where opportunities are scarce. They revealed that many of them possess practical skills in building, welding, wiring, fitting, hairdressing and other trades, and appealed to emaSwati to hire their services.
“We do not want to go back to jail. Life there was difficult. We just need opportunities to put our skills to good use so that we can support ourselves and our families,” said one of the released inmates.
They confirmed they would be working closely with the Eswatini Association of Rehabilitated Ex-Offenders to receive guidance on overcoming life’s challenges. Its interim President, Khazi Mkhwanazi, advised the beneficiaries to remain patient and resilient, noting that reintegration takes time and perseverance.
HMCS: A New Journey, Not the End
HMCS Deputy Public Relations Officer, Assistant Chief Officer Baphelele Kunene, reminded the released youth that their freedom marks “a new journey, not the end of incarceration.” He urged them to embrace discipline, respect, and positive conduct as they reintegrate into families and communities.
“We encourage our young people to value the opportunity given to them. Respect for parents, guardians, and community members will not only help them rebuild trust but also secure a brighter future,” said Kunene.
Families and Communities Called to Action
HMCS also appealed to families, faith-based groups, traditional structures, and community stakeholders to provide love, acceptance and opportunities for growth. Overcoming stigma, the Service stressed, would be essential for reducing reoffending and empowering ex-offenders to become productive members of society.
Release by the Numbers
- Total released: 464
- Males: 443
- Females: 21
- Below 18 years: 8
- Ages 18–35: 121
- Ages 36 & above: 335
- Oldest inmate: 74 years
- Youngest inmate: 15 years
Towards Restorative Justice
HMCS reiterated that the King’s prerogative of mercy embodies Eswatini’s vision of restorative justice, rehabilitation, and transformation of correctional facilities into centres of empowerment.
For the 464 released, the order represents a second chance—an opportunity to rebuild their lives, restore dignity, and contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.
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HMCS / Image is for illustration purposes only and not directly related to the article.)
