Africa-Press – Eswatini. Senators have thrown their weight behind the Law Reform Bill, which seeks to align outdated legislation with the provisions of Eswatini’s Constitution.
The show of support came during the Senate sitting on 22 August 2025, when the Bill was tabled for debate by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Prince Simelane.
Bringing Laws in Line with Modern Realities
Presenting the Bill, Prince Simelane explained that its purpose was to ensure all laws in the Kingdom remain relevant to the times and consistent with the country’s supreme law.
He noted that the concept of a Law Reform Committee was not new. A similar committee was established in 1981, but it only lasted two years before becoming defunct.
“This Bill will create a permanent mechanism to continuously review and update our laws,” the Minister said, emphasising the need for legislation that reflects Eswatini’s current social, political, and economic environment.
Strong Support from Senators
The proposal was met with broad support from Senators. Senate President Ndumiso Mdluli welcomed the initiative, describing it as a vital step in reforming outdated colonial-era laws.
Senators Chief Zabeni Shiba and Tony Sibandze cautioned, however, that the process should be closely monitored to prevent it from being undermined by those with ill intentions. “We must ensure the reforms are done in good faith, without elements that may derail the process,” they advised.
Senator Siphesihle Mkhonta also endorsed the Bill, stressing that many existing laws have become obstacles to development and service delivery. “This is a progressive move that will help improve the lives of Emaswati,” he said.
Senator Princess Ntfombiyenkhosi highlighted the confusion caused by overlapping laws across ministries. “For instance, one may work with the Ministry of Agriculture on a project, only to later discover that approval must also come from another ministry such as Tourism and Environmental Affairs. This leads to unnecessary delays and confusion,” she explained.
Next Steps
The Senate, under the leadership of President Lindiwe Dlamini, agreed that the Bill should be referred to the Senate Portfolio Committee of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs for further consideration and refinement.
The report will then table a report before Senate after considering and refining it for further debate and eventual enactment. If enacted, the Law Reform Bill will mark a significant milestone in modernising Eswatini’s legal framework, ensuring it keeps pace with the Constitution and the evolving needs of society.
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