By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE– Acting Deputy Prime Minister Jane Mkhonta-Simelane has paid her respects to the late former Prime Minister Prince Mabandla Dlamini by signing a condolence book opened at the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPMO).
Mkhonta-Simelane signed the book on 10 July 2025 and encouraged all members of the public to do the same. She emphasised that the condolence book is not reserved for dignitaries or officials only, but is open to every Liswati and others who wish to express their condolences.
Those who have already signed the book include Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, and several Cabinet ministers.
Prince Mabandla passed away during the weekend of 27 June 2025 while receiving medical treatment in South Africa. In his honour, Government has announced a State memorial service to be held on 12 July 2025 at the New Zakhele Free Evangelical Assemblies auditorium in Manzini. A night vigil will follow at KaNdwandwa Umphakatsi in the Hhohho Region, with the funeral scheduled for 13 July 2025 in Ntfonjeni.
DPM Thulisile Dladla has been appointed to lead the Cabinet Organising Committee tasked with overseeing the State funeral arrangements. This was confirmed in a statement issued by Prime Minister Dlamini on 3 July 2025. The committee will work closely with the Royal Family and a ministerial sub-committee to finalise the details of the funeral. Government has promised to communicate updates in consultation with the family.
However, the task of overseeing this important event is expected to be in the hands of the acting DPM, as the incumbent has been sent by His Majesty King Mswati III to attend the funeral service of South Africa’s former Deputy President David Dabebe Mabuza. Prince Mabandla’s passing has been met with national mourning and deep reflection on his enduring contributions to the nation.
Prince Mabandla served as Eswatini’s third Prime Minister, holding office from 23 November 1979 to 25 March 1983. He is fondly remembered for his wisdom, humility, and dedication to national unity. PM Dlamini hailed him as a key architect of Eswatini’s early governance, whose leadership helped shape the modern Eswatini state.
Beyond politics, Prince Mabandla was a respected member of the King’s Advisory Council, where he played a vital role in preserving Eswatini’s culture and traditions. His legacy remains one of political foresight and cultural stewardship.
