His Majesty King Mswati III has urged the family of the late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala to remain united and guard against outside influences that could sow division after his death. The King's message was delivered by Hhansense Dlamini, accompanied by Pastors Mahlindza and Sibandze, at Maphalala's memorial service at Zakhele Free Evangelical Assemblies. The King warned that the death of a prominent family member often created a vulnerable period in which outsiders could attempt to influence the children and wives.
Dlamini said external forces could enter a family at such a time, deceive its members and create divisions between wives, children and other relatives. He urged the Maphalala family to remain united and called on those around them to provide meaningful support rather than contribute to divisions. The message came as the nation gathered to remember Maphalala, who died after a career spanning decades in public service and eventually rose to become chief justice.
Maphalala's death was not only a loss to the Judiciary but also to the traditional structures with which he had maintained close relationships. He was also the Indvuna of Kontshingila and had commanded respect within the traditional system. Dlamini said Maphalala knew members of the traditional courts and would summon them when their involvement was required.
Dlamini reflected on his personal relationship with Maphalala, describing him as a man who understood both the modern and traditional sides of public administration. He recalled that Maphalala would often tell him that he was not his superior but his immediate supervisor, with the late chief justice representing the modern side while Dlamini represented the traditional side.
Civil Service Commission Chairperson Simanga Mamba, speaking on behalf of the Judicial Service Commission, painted a touching picture of Maphalala as a doting father. Mamba recalled seeing Maphalala with his children long before he occupied the country's highest judicial office. He said Maphalala loved his children deeply and sacrificed to give them a better future.
Mamba also recalled a light-hearted incident that offered a glimpse of the softer, more protective side of the otherwise calm and reserved chief justice. The incident involved Maphalala reacting unexpectedly when another judge poured a drink for his wife, prompting laughter from mourners.
The nation gathered to pay tribute to Maphalala, with the Judiciary, government officials and other structures represented at the memorial service. The King's message concluded with Psalm 139 being shared with mourners, as directed by the King. Maphalala's legacy continues to inspire, with his commitment to his family and public service leaving a lasting impact.
Key points
- The King urges the Maphalala family to remain united and guard against outside influences.
- Maphalala is remembered as a devoted and diligent public servant.
- The late Chief Justice was a doting father who sacrificed to give his children a better future.
