The Tsabedze family has warned Innocentia Tsabedze, the fifth wife of late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala, against relying on his estate for her future. According to a family representative, the union between Innocentia and the Maphalala family is still new, and significant family matters have not been thoroughly discussed. The family formally handed Innocentia over to the Maphalala family this year, hoping the marriage would last.
The family representative urged Innocentia to avoid involvement in potential disputes within the Maphalala family. The family hopes she will not engage in family conflicts, as they value humility and avoid trouble. They also advised her not to base her future on the late chief justice's estate, emphasizing that she has a stable job and source of income.
Innocentia's family background was also highlighted, as she comes from Malindza, the family of Chief Ndlondlo, where there is sufficient land and family support. The representative encouraged her to play an active role in supporting the late chief justice's children, who are still young. This responsibility is crucial, given that Maphalala was a caring father to his children.
The late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala had five wives: Eunice Dube, Tengetile Dlamini of KaPhunga, LaMabelesa, Lungile Ndlovu, and Innocentia Tsabedze. Representatives of the widows' families expressed their grief over his death, describing him as a man who had become more than a son-in-law. They noted that Maphalala integrated himself into their families and participated in family activities.
A representative of the Mabeleza family from Ntondozi recalled that the late chief justice would attend family events and make necessary contributions. He would also summon them and warn against abandoning their children, showcasing his care and love for his family. This portrayal depicts Maphalala as a man who maintained close relationships with his extended family despite holding the highest judicial office in Eswatini.
The late chief justice died on September 10 while receiving medical treatment in South Africa. He was the first Liswati to serve as chief justice of Eswatini, having held the position since 2015. His funeral brought together members of the Maphalala family, government officials, members of the Judiciary, the legal fraternity, traditional leaders, and mourners from across the country and neighboring countries.
The funeral and tributes to Maphalala highlighted his legacy as a devoted family man and a respected judicial leader. As the nation mourns his loss, his family and the community continue to celebrate his life and contributions to Eswatini. The advice given to Innocentia Tsabedze reflects the family's concerns for her well-being and their hopes for her future.
Key points
- The Tsabedze family advises Innocentia Tsabedze not to rely on the late chief justice's estate due to her stable job and new marriage.
- Innocentia comes from a family with sufficient land and support, and her family encourages her to support the late chief justice's children.
- The late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala was remembered as a devoted family man and a respected leader in Eswatini's judiciary.
