DIRCO to Host Official Memorial Service for Late Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa in Pretoria
Pretoria – The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will host the official memorial service for the late Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa on Friday, 10 October 2025. The event is set to take place at the DIRCO Conference Centre in the OR Tambo Building, Rietondale, Pretoria, starting from 10 am. Media are invited to arrive by 9 am to cover the proceedings. 29 This gathering comes as South Africa mourns the untimely passing of a dedicated public servant whose career spanned decades in politics and diplomacy.
Ambassador Mthethwa, who served as South Africa’s Head of Mission in Paris, France, passed away in the French capital on 30 September 2025, at the age of 58. His death has left a void in the nation’s diplomatic circles and prompted widespread tributes from colleagues, family, and political figures. President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a Special Official Funeral Category 2 for him, to be held in KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal, on Sunday, 12 October 2025, recognising his significant contributions to the country.
Circumstances Surrounding His Passing
The ambassador was found dead outside the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile hotel, where he had been staying. French authorities reported that he appeared to have fallen from a high floor, with initial indications pointing towards suicide. 5 However, the exact cause remains under investigation, as both French and South African officials continue their probes. Reports suggest he may have plunged from the 22nd floor, but details are still emerging. 6
The Mthethwa family has expressed that there are unanswered questions about the circumstances of his death. Senior family members travelled to Paris on Wednesday, 08 October 2025, to perform traditional rituals and prepare for the repatriation of his body. 2 The remains are expected to leave Paris on Thursday night, 09 October 2025, arriving in South Africa ahead of the memorial and funeral. 34 A private memorial service was held in Paris by friends and family, where cultural rites were conducted to honour his spirit and bring closure. 30
Opposition figures, including lawmaker Carl Niehaus, have raised concerns, suggesting the death occurred under “evidently suspicious circumstances” and calling for a thorough investigation. 0 The family has stated they will only find peace once the full facts are known, amid ongoing police inquiries in France. 10
A Storied Career in Politics and Diplomacy
Born on 23 January 1967 in KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal, Emmanuel Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa rose through the ranks of the African National Congress (ANC) during the anti-apartheid struggle. His political journey began in the 1980s in Durban, where he became involved in township activism and underground ANC structures. 42 He held a Diploma in Community Development from the University of Natal (now University of KwaZulu-Natal) and a Certificate in Mining. 47
Mthethwa entered Parliament in 2002 and quickly advanced. He chaired the Minerals and Energy Portfolio Committee before becoming ANC Chief Whip in 2008. 39 His close association with former President Jacob Zuma propelled him to cabinet positions. From 2009 to 2018, he served as Minister of Police, overseeing major reforms and facing controversies, including allegations of corruption and misuse of funds. 41 He later held the portfolio of Sport, Arts and Culture from 2018 to 2023, where he championed initiatives like the controversial flag project but drew criticism for financial mismanagement. 46
In December 2023, President Ramaphosa appointed him as Ambassador to France and Monaco, marking a shift to diplomacy after 15 years in the cabinet. 4 During his brief tenure, he worked to strengthen bilateral ties, focusing on trade, culture, and investment between South Africa and France.
His career was not without scandals. Mthethwa faced corruption claims, including during his time as police minister, where he was linked to issues like the Nkandla upgrades and alleged misuse of secret police funds. 7 Despite these, he remained a key ANC figure, known for his loyalty and contributions to the liberation movement.
Tributes Pour In from Across the Nation
Tributes have flooded in since his passing. President Ramaphosa described Mthethwa as a “dedicated servant” who played a pivotal role in South Africa’s democracy. 37 ANC leaders and former colleagues, including Mac Maharaj, have reflected on his life, highlighting his activism and leadership. 44
The family, through spokespersons, has shared their grief, noting his devotion as a father and community leader. Social media has been abuzz with condolences, with hashtags like #RIPNathiMthethwa trending. 13 Opposition parties have also paid respects while calling for transparency in the investigation.
Special Official Funeral and National Mourning
The Special Official Funeral Category 2, as announced by the President, will include ceremonial elements performed by the South African Police Service (SAPS), honouring his tenure as police minister. 1 The ceremony in KwaMbonambi on 12 October 2025 will be coordinated by the KwaZulu-Natal government. 33
In a show of national mourning, President Ramaphosa has directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast from 09 October 2025 until Mthethwa is laid to rest. 12 This gesture underscores the impact of his service.
🔴Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 115 🔴Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: Ngwathe Municipality Refuses to Back Down, Heads to Supreme Court of Appeal
Download Here:
Direct PDF File Here:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Central-News-Issue-114-1.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za