FORMER KoNtshingila indvuna Mfeneziyamtfoba Magagula has alleged that the late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala confided in some of his close associates that he was under pressure from certain individuals who wanted him to resign.
Magagula, a retired member of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF), claimed that Maphalala had shared with him and others some of the challenges he faced during his tenure as CJ.
“He confided to some of us how he was cornered by certain individuals who wanted him to resign. They abused him and were hellbent on seeing him removed from office,” alleged Magagula.
The former indvuna said some of the people who allegedly wanted Maphalala out of office were now publicly expressing sympathy following his death.
Magagula served as indvuna at KoNtshingila while Inkhosatana Gelane was acting chief before Bhozongo assumed the position a few years ago.
Disputes
He was regarded as one of Gelane’s trusted allies during disputes over traditional leadership, including challenges from the KaGodloza faction.
He said he had worked closely with Maphalala for many years and was deeply saddened by his passing.
“I am still in deep sorrow,” said Magagula.
He said he was aware of tensions between Maphalala and certain individuals, including some in influential positions. He claimed that the late chief justice had made enemies as a result of both his role in the Judiciary and his standing within traditional structures, where he served as a senior indvuna.
He further alleged that there were attempts by certain individuals to use their influence to pressure the CJ to step down.
Magagula said Maphalala had disclosed the names of some of the individuals he was referring to, but their identities were being withheld due to the sensitivity of the matter.
“They know themselves, they gave Maphalala a tough time,” he alleged.
‘CJ key to Bhozongo’s ascension’
THE late CJ Bheki Maphalala played a pivotal role in the ascension of KoNtshingila Chief Bhozongo Simelane, according to former KoNtshingila indvuna Mfeneziyamtfoba Magagula.
KoNtshingila was for years known for divisions within the ruling Simelane clan, with rival factions based at KaGwegwe and KaGodloza disputing who should succeed the late Chief Mabonya Simelane, Bhozongo’s father.
Amid the prolonged dispute, Inkhosatana Gelane was entrusted with leading the area in an acting capacity while the succession issue remained unresolved. She served as acting chief for close to three decades.
Maphalala served as indvuna during Gelane’s tenure and was actively involved in the traditional leadership structures of the area.
Magagula, who worked closely with both Gelane and Maphalala, said the late CJ remained involved in KoNtshingila affairs despite the demands of his office.
He said following consultations between Maphalala and Gelane, he was entrusted with some of the responsibilities of the indvuna role while continuing to report to them.
“Because of his responsibilities as Chief Justice, Maphalala delegated some duties to me, but I continued taking instructions from him and Inkhosatana Gelane. I was effectively second in command after Maphalala as indvuna of KoNtshingila,” said Magagula.
He credited Maphalala and Gelane for ensuring that Bhozongo eventually assumed the chieftaincy.
“Maphalala was instrumental in Chief Bhozongo assuming power. Bhozongo is a chief because of Maphalala and, together with Inkhosatana Gelane, they ensured that the KaGodloza faction did not succeed with its preferred candidate,” alleged Magagula.
He said the late CJ’s death had deeply affected both Gelane and Chief Bhozongo.
Maphalala was KoNtshingila’s ‘goldmine’
THE late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala was a pillar of support for many residents under KoNtshingila, according to former indvuna Mfeneziyamtfoba Magagula, who described him as a ‘goldmine’ for the community.
Magagula said Maphalala quietly assisted many residents, particularly the elderly, without seeking recognition.
“The elderly were close to his heart. Whenever he was at home, he would send us to deliver food to some of the elderly. The good thing about him was that he never made it public,” said Magagula.
He said Maphalala also helped several residents secure employment.
“He was like a goldmine to many people. Some received food assistance, while others were helped to secure permanent jobs,” said Magagula.
He added that the late chief justice preferred to help people quietly and never sought publicity for his acts of generosity.
“Many people benefited from the assistance he gave to the community. He never made noise about helping residents, unlike others,” he said.
Meanwhile, Magagula revealed that Maphalala died while still contributing towards the construction of Chief Bhozongo Simelane’s new main royal residence, Ekuhlaleni.
He said the late CJ remained actively involved in traditional affairs and community development projects.
“I have no doubt that Maphalala would have played a pivotal role in preparations for Chief Bhozongo’s sibhimbi,” said Magagula.
