The leader of the amaNdebele nation, King Makhosonke II, has died at the age of 65 after a 40-year reign. News of his death saddened the community, and the Presidency issued a statement offering condolences to the Royal Household.
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The King, born Enoch Mabena, died in the early hours of Tuesday morning, 9 June 2026. However, the cause of his death had not yet been revealed at the time of publication.
King Makhosonke II’s passing saddens President Cyril Ramaphosa
The same day, President Cyril Ramaphosa shared that he mourned King Makhosonke II’s death, adding:
“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.
“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.”
Statement by President @CyrilRamaphosa on the passing of His Majesty King Makhosonke II of the Amandebele nation
🔗 https://t.co/17KhnfH2LX pic.twitter.com/5CeUr1txgn
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) June 9, 2026
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South Africans are left heartbroken
Local members of the online community gathered on social media platforms, particularly X, to also express their heartfelt condolences.
A portion of Mpumalanga’s Premier Mandla Ndlovu read, “May the Royal Family, the Kingdom, and all those mourning his departure find strength and comfort during this difficult time. We honour his legacy and the invaluable contribution he made to his people and to our nation.”
@Gorthan_Sir wrote in the comment section, “Oh, our ruler has died. I am mourning. Y’all must leave [me] alone.”
“He’s resting in peace. Amen!” exclaimed @ZondiMotha5745.
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