President Cyril Ramaphosa
KwaMbonambi – President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy at the funeral of the late South African ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, on Sunday, 12 October 2025. The service, set for Mthethwa’s hometown in KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal, comes after his tragic death in Paris last month.
Ramaphosa has granted Mthethwa a special official funeral category two, honouring his long service as a freedom fighter, police minister, and diplomat. This marks a poignant moment for the nation, as family, friends, and officials gather to pay tribute to a man who dedicated his life to South Africa. With flags flying at half-mast until Sunday evening, the country mourns a leader whose passing has sparked questions about the circumstances in France.
Mthethwa’s remains arrived home last week, allowing loved ones to begin final farewells. As preparations wrap up, many reflect on his legacy amid calls for a full probe into his death. The president’s role in the eulogy underscores Mthethwa’s impact on the ANC and government.
Mthethwa’s Sudden Death and Repatriation
Nathi Mthethwa, 58, was found dead in the courtyard of a Paris hotel on 30 September 2025, after falling from his 22nd-floor room.  French authorities are investigating, with early signs pointing to a possible suicide, but family and officials have raised doubts.  His wife reported him missing after a distressing message, and a forced window lock added to the mystery.
South Africa sent a team of five police officers, led by National Commissioner Fannie Masemola, to assist the French probe. The body arrived at OR Tambo International Airport on Friday, 10 October 2025, before heading to King Shaka International Airport in Durban. Family performed a traditional Zulu ritual in Paris to “fetch” his spirit, ensuring cultural closure.
Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Services
The special official funeral category two means state support, including military honours. The main service starts at 09:00 on Sunday at Mthethwa’s family home in KwaMbonambi, with Ramaphosa’s eulogy as the highlight. An official memorial was held on Friday at the DIRCO Conference Centre in Pretoria, where dignitaries paid tribute.
The National Flag flies at half-mast from Thursday until Sunday evening, a mark of respect from the president. KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has pledged provincial backing, noting Mthethwa’s contributions to the nation. ANC KZN coordinator Mike Mabuyakhulu urged mourners to arrive early, by 08:30, for the Sunday event.
Mthethwa’s Legacy in Politics and Diplomacy
Born in 1967, Mthethwa rose from ANC underground work during apartheid to key government roles. He served as police minister from 2009 to 2014, overseeing events like the Marikana tragedy, and later as sports, arts, and culture minister from 2019 to 2023. Appointed ambassador to France in 2023, he strengthened ties until his death.
Controversies marked his career, including corruption claims he denied and questions over police actions under his watch. Despite this, Ramaphosa praised him as a “distinguished servant” who met his end “prematurely and traumatically.”
Reactions and Calls for Investigation
Former police minister Bheki Cele called Mthethwa’s death suspicious at a Pinetown memorial, questioning quick conclusions. Opposition leaders like Carl Niehaus echoed this, urging a thorough probe. Mthethwa’s family, through son Mkhululi, thanked supporters and stressed healing through rituals.
The ANC and government have mourned deeply, with tributes at memorials highlighting his liberation role. Social media buzzes with condolences, but also demands for clarity on the Paris incident.
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