CJ Maphalala understood separation of powers -Minister Sikhumbuzo

MBABANE – Acting Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Sikhumbuzo Dlamini has described the late Chief Justice, Bheki Maphalala, as a judicial leader who understood the importance of separation of powers.

Dlamini, who is the substantive Minister for Tinkhundla Administration and Development, was speaking during Maphalala’s funeral at Lawuba yesterday where he joined government officials, judicial officers, family members and other mourners in paying tribute to the late Chief Justice.

The acting DPM said Maphalala understood that the different arms of government had distinct responsibilities and should operate within their respective mandates.

“He understood separation of powers,” said the minister, highlighting the late chief justice’s appreciation of the constitutional principle.

Dlamini said Maphalala had worked for government and, during his service, had helped many people.

He also acknowledged that some of the judgments delivered during Maphalala’s tenure did not please government.

However, Dlamini said the work of the courts remained important in maintaining peace in the country.

“Some of the judgments he made did not please us,” he said.Sikhumbuzo said Maphalala did not just have the interest of government as an entity but also ordinary emaSwati.

The minister said the country continued to enjoy peace because of the role played by the courts.

Sikhumbuzo also spoke about Maphalala’s faith, saying the late chief justice had remained committed to God.

Further, the minister also praised Maphalala for the role he played in the Judiciary. He also used the opportunity to praise the King for going to the people and also ensuring that they had services.

A casket carrying the body of the late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala. (Pics: Kwanele Dlamini) One of the wives to the late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala paying her last respect. (Pics: Joseph Zulu) Children and relatives to the late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala paid their last respect. (Pics: Joseph Zulu) Members of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) in full gear were in attendance. (Pics: Joseph Zulu) Judges carrying the casket of the late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala. (Pics: Joseph Zulu) A customised coffin for the late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala. (Pics: Joseph Zulu) The widows of the late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala sitting near his casket amog other mourners. (Pics: Joseph Zullu) The Royal Eswatin Police Service (REPS) brass band plays The Last Post as the body is being lowered.

King calls for peace in Maphalala family

MBABANE – The King has called for peace within the family of the late Chief Justice (CJ) Bheki Maphalala, urging his relatives to remain united following his death.

The message was delivered by Hhansense Dlamini, who represented Their Majesties during Maphalala’s funeral at his parental home in Lawuba.

Dlamini conveyed the King’s appeal for the Maphalala family to maintain peace and avoid divisions. The King urged the family to continue with their lives while remaining grounded in faith. “Continue in prayer, God is real. Nothing can defeat God,” Dlamini said, delivering the message on behalf of Their Majesties.

The message also encouraged the family to let go of matters that could cause division and focus on moving forward. The King specifically appealed for peace within the Maphalala household.

“I am asking you that there should be peace in the Maphalala home. There should be peace,” Dlamini said. He further urged the family to consider the welfare of the children during the difficult period. “Don’t confuse the children,” he said. Hhansense also told the mourners that Her Majesty the Indlovukazi has called for people to repent. He said she has urged that they should then continue to live holy lives.

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