Eswatini King’s advisor Prince Mabandla dies
Prince Mabandla, a senior royal and former Prime Minister of Eswatini, has passed away, drawing tributes from across the nation, including from King Mswati III’s office.
Prince Mabandla, from the Ntfonjeni Royal Kraal, was appointed Prime Minister by the late King Sobhuza II around 1979, shortly after the establishment of the Tinkhundla system of governance. His leadership came at a time of political transition, but his tenure was cut short during the turbulent Liqoqo era. He was removed from office by a powerful royal faction led by the late Prince Mfanasibili of eMbelebeleni, who replaced him with Prince Bhekimpi from the Nkhaba Royal Kraal.
Following years in exile, Prince Mabandla returned home after the coronation of Prince Makhosetive (now King Mswati III), who made efforts to reunite the royal family. Prince Mabandla later served on the Liqoqo—the highest advisory council to the King—until his passing.
In response to the news, King Mswati III’s spokesperson, Percy Simelane, expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences on behalf of the royal household and the nation.
“We would like to register our heartfelt condolences to his good family, friends, and the Nation he once was Prime Ministers of. We pray to God to be with all of them as they try to pull themselves together to come to terms with this sad and unfortunate loss. With his demise, Eswatini lost a man of magnetic personality. Prince Mabandla was always ready to burn to keep his fellow countrymen and women warm. He came into power when the country’s stability was at stake, but like all men of steel, he took the pressure pegged to Eswatini’s own winds change without blinking. We therefore have all the reasons to bleed with his good family, Government and the entire Nation. How sad!” said the King’s Spokesperson.
Prince Mabandla came from a distinguished royal lineage. He was a descendant of Prince Magudvulela, son of King Mswati II. Magudvulela fathered Prince Mancibane, who in turn was the father of Prince Mabandla.
His legacy, shaped by resilience, national service, and efforts toward unity, is being remembered by many across Eswatini as the nation mourns his passing.