SDM pays courtesy tribute to the late Ikosi Maphepha II
MONSTERLUS
The Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM) delegation, led by Acting Executive Mayor Cllr Alfred Matlala, has on Tuesday 29 July 2025 paid a solemn courtesy visit to the Royal House of the late Ikosi Poni Japhta Mahlangu, Maphepha II of the Ndebele Traditional Council, strengthening ties with traditional authority.
The visit was a gesture of respect and solidarity with the royal family during this difficult time.
The delegation, which included the SDM Chief Whip Cllr Aaron Machipa, Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality (EMLM) Mayor Cllr David Tladi, EMLM Speaker Cllr Junior Thethe, EMLM Chief Whip Cllr Elias Ntuli, and several other councillors, was warmly welcomed by the Mahlangu Royal Council.
Former Executive Mayor and current Member of Parliament (MP), Stanley Keamotseng Ramaila, also joined the visit to pay his respects.
The Mhlangu Royal Council expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts between the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and local government structures in supporting a dignified and respectful burial for Ikosi Mahlangu, Maphepha II.
The official funeral is scheduled to take place on 9 August 2025, at Ngekosini, Ko Somtjhatjhana Village, outside Monsterlus.
Ikosi Maphepha II passed away on Tuesday 22 July 2025 after a prolonged illness, leaving a void in the community.
The district municipality’s visit reaffirms the strong and enduring relationship between traditional authorities and local government, reflecting a shared commitment to community and heritage.
This gesture of respect and solidarity comes after the municipality expressed its deepest condolences to the Mahlangu Royal Family and the community on 23 July 2025.
Elias Motsoaledi Mayor Tladi described Ikosi Mahlangu as a revered leader whose dedication to his community and traditional values will be profoundly missed.
“I am deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Ikosi P J Mahlangu, Maphepha II, Mgwezani of the Ndebele Traditional Council. Ikosi Mahlangu was a revered leader whose dedication to his community and traditional values will be profoundly missed. His legacy of service and commitment to the people will continue to inspire us all,” said Tladi.
He said the municipality stands in solidarity with the Mahlangu family and the entire community as they navigate this difficult period.
