Atafo Igbinedion-
A Swazi woman, Dumsile Dludlu, could face up to three years in prison after being convicted of accessing her husband’s WhatsApp messages without his consent.
The case, which has sparked widespread debate on social media, underscores the enforcement of Swaziland’s Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act of 2022.
According to reports, Dludlu accessed her husband, Samukeliso Matse’s, private WhatsApp messages without authorization, violating the cybercrime law, which criminalizes unauthorized access to any computer system.
Under the law, offenders risk penalties of up to E500,000 (approximately R500,000) or a prison term of up to five years.
In court, Dludlu pleaded not guilty to unauthorized access but admitted to confronting her husband after reading his messages. “I did insult him, but it wasn’t as severe as what’s in the police statement,” she testified, defending her actions.
The case has ignited intense debate online, with many questioning whether personal disputes warrant such harsh legal consequences under the cybercrime legislation. Legal experts and commentators say the case highlights the need for public education about the implications of the law.
As Dludlu awaits sentencing, the case continues to fuel discussions about privacy, relationships, and the far-reaching impact of cybercrime laws in personal settings.
