Mbombela (Nelspruit) – Prince Mbulawa Mabena, the spokesperson for the amaNdebele Kingdom, said the passing of his brother, King Makhosoke II – Enock Makhosoke Mabhena – “caught them by surprise”.
The cause of the King’s death had not been made public.
Speaking to the SABC, Prince Mbulawa said his brother didn’t show any sign of ill health before his unexpected passing.
King Makhosoke II, the traditional leader of the amaNdebele akwaManala, passed away at the age of 65 on Tuesday, 9 June 2026, after 40 years on the throne.
He has been honoured by President Cyril Ramaphosa with a special category funeral.
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The funeral of His Majesty will take place at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium, KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga, on Sunday, 14 June.
The proceedings will include ceremonial elements provided by the South African National Defence Force.
