Africa-Press – Eswatini. Incarcerated businessman Sipho Shongwe says inmates serving under the Matsapha Maximum Correctional Facility “love His Majesty King Mswati III” and wish to be allowed to attend national functions, including the sacred Incwala Ceremony.
He revealed this when representing more than 150 inmates during a Christmas party attended by Members of Parliament at the facility today, where offenders and legislators shared a spirit of unity, hope and reconciliation.
The celebration brought together 159 inmates, including several prominent figures serving various sentences, among them Sipho Shongwe, Kakona Dlamini, former MP Bacede Mabuza, and Ntuthuko Dlamini. Despite being incarcerated, many of these inmates are serving long-term sentences linked to serious offences, yet the Christmas programme offered them an opportunity for reflection, personal growth and emotional healing within the rehabilitation environment.
Speaking with confidence and gratitude, Shongwe expressed appreciation to the authorities and highlighted that inmates remain patriotic citizens who respect the monarchy and wish to be part of national life where appropriate. His remarks were delivered with dignity and hope, reinforcing the message of unity and constructive rehabilitation. A notable family bond was also present, as Kwaluseni MP Sifiso Shongwe, who attended the event, is the son of the incarcerated businessman.
The event also showcased uplifting recreational support as inmates were presented with brand new soccer kits, a meaningful gesture aimed at encouraging wellness, teamwork and positive engagement through sport inside the facility.
Former MP Bacede Mabuza, who is serving his sentence under the same facility, played a leading role during the function as he took charge of protocol arrangements for the visiting MPs. He appeared to be in good physical shape, energetic and in high spirits, confidently coordinating the programme and ensuring that proceedings ran smoothly. His composure and involvement reflected resilience, discipline and a strong spirit of rehabilitation, which impressed both guests and fellow inmates.
The Christmas celebration was attended by a strong delegation of legislators, including Deputy Speaker MP Madala Mhlanga (Mhlangatane Constituency), MP Khungankhosi Dlamini (Mayiwane Inkhundla), MP Welcome Dlamini (Mbabane East Inkhundla), Mafutseni MP Sabelo Mtsetfwa, Shiselweni MP Masiphula Mamba, Kwaluseni MP Sifiso Shongwe, and Senator Mdvoti. Their presence demonstrated compassion, leadership and continued commitment to supporting correctional rehabilitation initiatives.
The event radiated warmth and unity as MPs interacted with inmates, shared messages of encouragement and reaffirmed the importance of restoring dignity and hope among those undergoing correctional reform. Through family bonds, respectful engagement and rehabilitation programmes, inmates are being encouraged to rebuild their lives and look forward to a positive future beyond incarceration, while remaining connected to the nation they love.
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