Pretoria: President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his condolences following the passing of His Majesty King Makhosonke II of the AmaNdebele nation. 'It is with deep sadness that I mourn the passing away today, Tuesday, 9 June 2026, of His Majesty King Makhosonke II - Enock Makhosonke Mabhena - reigning King of the AmaNdebele nation,' the President said in a statement on Tuesday. His Majesty, the traditional leader of the AmaNdebele akwaManala, passed away at the age of 65 after 40 years on the throne.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa extended his thoughts and prayers to the Royal Household, Her Majesty Queen Sekhothali, AmaNdebele, and the Basotho nation from whom Her Majesty is descended. The President acknowledged the King as a pillar of national unity and a champion of development, emphasizing his vision for education and land restitution.
The President reaffirmed the nation's support for AmaNdebele during this period of mourning. 'We offer our deep condolences to the Royal Household once more,' said President Ramaphosa.
