Before he appeared before the Manzini Magistrate’s Court facing a murder charge over the death of Nokuthula ‘Nana’ Nxumalo, 18-year-old Mukelo Dlamini had stood before mourners at her memorial service, speaking about the woman he identified as his aunt.
Footage of the memorial service, which took place before Nxumalo was laid to rest on August 8, shows Dlamini approaching the pulpit in a black suit and white shirt, with his hair neatly combed.
Speaking on behalf of the nephews, Dlamini introduced himself to those gathered before reflecting on Nxumalo’s life and the memories she had created with her family.
“Sanibonani egameni likaJesu, my name is Mukelo Dlamini, I am the nephew of the late Nokuthula,” he said.
He told mourners that the family had suffered a loss but urged them to remember the positive experiences they had shared with Nxumalo.
“We have all lost in her death, but we should all remember all the good things she did together with her friends, family, colleagues,” he said.
Dlamini asked to begin his remarks with a Bible verse, turning to Revelation 21:4. The verse speaks of a future in which there will be no more death, mourning, crying or pain.
He subsequently spoke about Nxumalo’s personality and the role she played in creating memories for the younger members of the family.
Dlamini described her as someone who was full of joy and happiness.
He said she had a way of changing the atmosphere when she found family members having a difficult day.
“Even though she would find us having a gloomy day, she would come and lighten up the mood and make us all laugh,” he said.
He also recalled occasions when Nxumalo would take members of the family out, including nephews, nieces and children.
“Sometimes, she would take us out, and have a splendid day with her and make good memories; us nephews, nieces and children,” he said.
Dlamini acknowledged that the occasion was a difficult one for the family, but said the focus should remain on the memories Nxumalo had created during her life.
“Even though it is a painful day for us, we have to remember her with all good memories,” he said.
In his closing remarks, he described Nxumalo as a special person whose life had touched many people.
“Today, we say goodbye to a special person whose life touched the hearts of many although it is difficult to accept that you are no longer with us,” he said.
He said the family would remember her kindness, love and the memories she had left behind.
Dlamini further asked for God’s comfort and strength for the Nxumalo family and others who had known her.
“May you rest peacefully and may God comfort and strengthen our family and everyone who loved you. You will never be forgotten, may your beautiful soul rest in peace,” he said.
Nxumalo died on August 4 and was buried four days later. At the time of her death, those around her understood that she had died following a sudden illness. Her death subsequently became the subject of a police investigation.
Dlamini has since appeared before the Manzini Magistrate’s Court facing a murder charge in connection with her death. According to the charge sheet, Dlamini allegedly unlawfully and intentionally killed Nxumalo at Ngculwini on August 4.
He was remanded in custody pending committal to the High Court.
The case has since brought renewed attention to the circumstances surrounding Nxumalo’s death and her relationship with Dlamini, who was reportedly with her before her death.
Dlamini had been enrolled at Vulamasango following a sexual offence-related matter involving allegations that he had molested boys. The allegations in that matter are separate from the murder charge he now faces.
At the time of Nxumalo’s death, Dlamini was staying at her parental home at Ngculwini.
The allegations now before court are separate from the remarks he made at the memorial service and have not been tested in court.
Dlamini remains presumed innocent until proven guilty.
