MBABANE: The Government of Eswatini and the Judiciary have announced the death of Chief Justice Moses Cuthbert Bhekie Maphalala.
Maphalala died in the early hours of Thursday, September 10, 2026, while receiving medical attention in the Republic of South Africa, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Justice and the Judiciary on Friday.
The announcement was made with the Government and Judiciary expressing deep sorrow over the passing of the country’s Chief Justice. 
The statement said Maphalala served the nation with integrity and a strong commitment to upholding the rule of law and the administration of justice.
“His passing is a huge and irreplaceable loss not only to the Judiciary of Eswatini and the Legal fraternity, but to the Eswatini Government and the nation at large,” reads the statement.
The Government and Judiciary said his death would be felt across the country, particularly within the legal fraternity and the justice system.
On behalf of His Majesty King Mswati III, the Queen Mother, the Government of Eswatini, the Judiciary and the nation, condolences were extended to the Maphalala family, his loved ones and colleagues.
The statement said the nation would be kept informed about funeral arrangements.
“The Judiciary of Eswatini in consultation with the Eswatini Government and the Maphalala family will keep the nation informed of subsequent funeral arrangements which will be communicated in due course,” the statement said.
The announcement was signed by the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and was issued on behalf of the ministry and the Judiciary.
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs HRH Prince Simelane also conveyed condolences following the death.
The statement concluded with the words: “May his soul rest in peace.”
