Mourners in Eswatini braved cold weather and drizzle to bid farewell to Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala in a night vigil and state funeral. The event was attended by members of the royal family, government officials, judicial officers, and residents. The night vigil began at around 10 pm, with mourners filling a marquee and two side tents to pay their final respects to the country’s first Liswati Chief Justice.
The programme featured speeches and messages from former schoolmates, friends, family, and residents who came to pay their final respects. One speaker after another shared personal memories of Maphalala, remembering him not only as a senior judicial officer but as a friend, neighbour, family man, and community leader. Pastors delivered messages of comfort and encouragement during the vigil.
The funeral service provided moments of reflection as those who had known the late Maphalala recalled his character away from the courtroom. A poem titled ‘Msindisi yima ngakimi’ was recited by Mbuso Maphalala, adding a deeply personal dimension to the farewell. The poem was a testament to the impact Maphalala had on those who knew him.
The final burial ceremony took on a State character, reflecting Maphalala’s position as the first Liswati to occupy the country’s highest judicial office. His casket was draped in the national flag, and a gun salute was performed during the burial with trumpets sounded. High-ranking officers from the Royal Eswatini Police Service, Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force, and His Majesty’s Correctional Services took part in the ceremonial salute.
Among those who attended were notable faces, including Businessman Walter Bennett, Senator Siphelele Mkhonta, and Judge Mumcy Dlamini. The programme included tributes from various individuals, such as Indvuna Hhasense, representing Their Majesties, and acting Deputy Prime Minister Sikhumbuzo Dlamini. These tributes reflected the many spheres in which Maphalala had left a mark.
Maphalala had a distinguished career, serving in various capacities. He obtained his BProc and LLB from Wits in 1990 and entered private legal practice in 1992. He served on the Constitutional Review Commission in 1996 and was appointed to the Constitution Drafting Committee in 2002. He was appointed High Court Judge in 2009 and elevated to the Supreme Court in 2011.
Maphalala’s career milestones also include being appointed Chief Justice in 2015, becoming the first Liswati to hold the position. In 2025, he continued regional and international judicial engagements, including advocacy for judicial independence. In 2026, he received and oversaw the public release of the Master of the High Court Commission of Inquiry report.
Key points
- Eswatini’s Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala was remembered for his contributions to the judiciary and the community.
- The state funeral was attended by high-ranking officials and residents who came to pay their respects.
- Maphalala had a distinguished career, serving in various capacities, including as a High Court Judge and Supreme Court Judge.
