MANZINI – Former Deputy Prime Minister and veteran public servant Senator Constance Simelane was laid to rest on Saturday morning at the Manzini Golf Course Cemetery.
The funeral, held with full state honours, drew a gathering of high-ranking officials, family, and mourners from across the country. His Majesty King Mswati III was represented by former DPM Themba Masuku. Also in attendance were Cabinet Ministers Phila Buthelezi (Labour and Social Security), Sikhumbuzo Dlamini (Tinkhundla), and other senior government officials.
As her coffin was lowered, the Eswatini Royal Police Service performed a ceremonial gun salute. Close family members followed with floral tributes, joined by the King’s representative and members of Cabinet.
Members of the Methodist Church and St. Paul’s congregation sang hymns and danced around the grave while men prepared to cover it with soil.
Zibuse Simelane, speaking for the family, extended appreciation to Their Majesties and government for granting Senator Simelane a state funeral. He described her as a servant of the people who remained committed to national service throughout her life. He also mentioned her royal lineage as a descendant of King Simelane.
Masuku, delivering the King’s message, recalled the former DPM’s wisdom and leadership. He read from Ecclesiastes 3:1, reminding mourners of the passing of time and the natural rhythm of life and death.
Senator Simelane’s public career began as Assistant Secretary in the DPM’s Office under Mfundza Sukati, Eswatini’s first Deputy Prime Minister. She later became Minister for Education after her appointment to Senate in 2003. In October 2006, she made history as the country’s first female Deputy Prime Minister following the death of Hon. Albert Shabangu.
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