Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini will return to the polls in November to elect two new Bucopho, following vacancies that have arisen in two chiefdoms.
The announcement was made by Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) Chairman Prince Mhlabuhlangene during a press conference held at the Commission’s headquarters in Nkhanini, Lobamba, on Thursday, 4 September 2025.
According to the EBC, the by-elections will be conducted on 22 November 2025 to fill vacancies in Mphumakudze Chiefdom under Siphofaneni Inkhundla in the Lubombo Region, and Macudvulwini Chiefdom under Ngwemphisi Inkhundla in the Manzini Region.
Prince Mhlabuhlangene explained that the positions became vacant after the disappearance of the Bucopho from Mphumakudze and the unfortunate passing of the Bucopho from Macudvulwini.
Election Timeline
The EBC has set out a roadmap leading up to the November polls. The first key stage will be voter registration, scheduled from 19 to 28 September 2025. Additional events, including nomination processes and civic education campaigns, will be communicated in due course.
Polling stations will open at 7:00am and close at 7:00pm on election day, with the Commission assuring the public of free, fair, and transparent processes.
Who Can Vote?
The Chairman reminded emaSwati that eligibility to vote begins at 18 years and above. This includes individuals who have turned 18 since the last general elections in 2023. Such first-time voters are encouraged to register during the set period to ensure they are able to participate.
Appeal for Participation
On behalf of Their Majesties, the Commission has urged the public to take part in the by-elections. Prince Mhlabuhlangene stressed that community representation at Bucopho level remains central to the success of Tinkhundla democracy, as Bucopho act as vital links between communities and their respective constituencies.
“The EBC pleads with emaSwati to actively participate in these elections so that they are successful and representative of the will of the people,” said Prince Mhlabuhlangene.
Background
Bucopho form part of the local governance structure within the Tinkhundla system of government, working alongside Indvuna Yenkhundla and Members of Parliament. They are responsible for representing community concerns, mobilising development initiatives, and ensuring a flow of communication between citizens and their leaders.
The upcoming by-elections will therefore not only restore representation in the two affected chiefdoms but also reaffirm Eswatini’s commitment to participatory governance at grassroots level.
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