Kwamhlanga: Deputy President Paul Mashatile will deliver the eulogy at the Special Official Funeral service of the late His Majesty King Makhosonke II, King of the amaNdebele nation, on Sunday, 14 June. The funeral service will be held at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga.

According to South African Government News Agency, His Majesty King Makhosonke II passed away on Tuesday, 9 June 2026, at the age of 65 after reigning for 40 years. The Presidency highlighted that King Makhosonke II was a leader who guided communities with humanity and honour. He focused on empowering rural communities and fostering relationships between the government and traditional leadership. His dedication to cultural preservation was evident through annual events aimed at social cohesion and nation-building.

The Presidency also noted that His Majesty's initiatives included the creation of the Forum of Majesties in South Africa, where he served as Chairperson. In recognition of his commitment to education, a local school, King Makhosonke II Secondary School in KwaMhlanga, was named in his honor.

The King is remembered for his dedication to preserving Ndebele history and culture, with the Presidency acknowledging his love, sacrifice, and determination. In a tribute, President Cyril Ramaphosa described the King as a unifying figure and a proponent of development, notably in education and land restitution.

On Friday, President Ramaphosa announced that King Makhosoke II - Enock Makhosoke Mabhena, the traditional leader of the amaNdebele akwaManala, would receive a special Official Funeral Category 1, complete with military honors.