President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his heartfelt condolences following the death of His Majesty King Makhosonke II of the AmaNdebele nation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the President said he was deeply saddened by the passing of the monarch, born Enock Makhosonke Mabhena, who died on 9 June 2026 at the age of 65.
King Makhosonke II, the traditional leader of the AmaNdebele akwaManala, served as king for four decades, playing a significant role in preserving the cultural heritage and leadership of his people.
“It is with deep sadness that I mourn the passing away today, Tuesday, 9 June 2026, of His Majesty King Makhosonke II – Enock Makhosonke Mabhena – reigning King of the AmaNdebele nation,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President extended his sympathies to the Royal Household, including Her Majesty Queen Sekhothali, as well as the AmaNdebele nation and the Basotho people from whom the Queen is descended.
“My thoughts and prayers – and I know those of the nation – go out today to the Royal Household, Her Majesty Queen Sekhothali, AmaNdebele and the Basotho nation from whom Her Majesty is descended,” he said.
President Ramaphosa paid tribute to the late king’s contribution to nation-building, describing him as a pillar of unity and a champion of development.
“We will in due course pay tribute to the King as a pillar of national unity in diversity and as a champion of development, with education and land restitution as part of his vision,” the President said.
He added that South Africa stands in solidarity with the AmaNdebele nation during this period of mourning.
“The nation stands alongside AmaNdebele in this moment of grief. We offer our deep condolences to the Royal Household once more,” President Ramaphosa said.
The passing of King Makhosonke II marks the end of a 40-year reign that was characterized by efforts to promote education, development, cultural preservation, and land restitution within the AmaNdebele community.
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