Eswatini extends probe into The Luke Commission Hospital

Eswatini Health Minister Mduduzi Matsebula has requested a 28-day extension to an ongoing investigation into The Luke Commission (TLC) Hospital. The House of Assembly approved the request, extending the initial 14-day period to allow for more comprehensive findings before a report is tabled.

The probe follows allegations of exorbitant medical fees charged by the facility, despite TLC receiving a E50 million government subvention for the 2025/26 financial year. The investigation aims to determine how the hospital justifies high costs to citizens and how public funds used for medicines and consumables are being utilized. Additionally, officials will examine if existing agreements between the government and TLC align with national policies regarding affordable medical care and universal health coverage.

A 15-member commission of inquiry has been appointed under Legal Notice No. 144 of 2026. Chaired by Dr Mbuso Dlamini, a Senior Medical Officer at Mbabane Government Hospital, the team includes medical doctors, law enforcement, and representatives from the Labour Department. The commission has been granted unrestricted access to the TLC health facility and all relevant departments to conduct its review.