Successor named as Queen-Regent Sandile laid to rest

AmaRharhabe Queen-Regent Noloyiso Sandile was laid to rest yesterday, with the nation wasting no time in naming her 28-year-old son as her successor.

Jonguxolo Vululwandle Sandile will now lead the 42 senior traditional leaders and 300 headmen in his jurisdiction.

He previously held the title of crown prince.

Queen Noloyiso, who died of a Covid-19-related ailment last week, was buried at Mngqesha Great Place near King William’s Town.

In accordance with state of disaster regulations, only 50 people attended the royal funeral yesterday and 25 mourners, among them Eastern Cape premier Oscar Mabuyane, co-operative governance and traditional affairs MEC Xolile Nqatha and Buffalo City mayor Xola Pakathi, were permitted at the graveyard.

Mourners wore face masks and shields, protective gowns and shoe covers.

The casket was carried by four men in hazmat suits — a stark change from the traditional royal or military pallbearers.

President Cyril Ramaphosa had accorded the funeral Special Official Funeral Category 1 status, but due to the Covid-19 restrictions there were no military ceremonial aspects.

Mineral resources minister Gwede Mantashe delivered the eulogy on behalf of Ramaphosa and former president Nelson Mandela’s widow, Graça Machel, sent a message of condolence.

In tribute to his mother, Jonguxolo said: “You were our role model, mom. It was your teaching that we should humble ourselves, even if we are royal.

“We were not expecting you to leave us so soon.”

Prince Mbonisi Zwelethini delivered a speech on behalf of the Zulu kingdom.

The queen was the sister of Zulu king Goodwill Zwelithini.

Contralesa general secretary Zolani Mkiva urged communities to continue observing all Covid-19 protocols.

Nkosi Xhanti Sigcawu, of the AmaXhosa’s Gcaleka royal house, said the resolution to appoint Jonguxolo king had come after a meeting of the Sandile core royal family, AmaGcaleka, and other houses.

He was chosen unanimously.