President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that the late Ambassador to France and former Cabinet Minister Nathi Mthethwa will be laid to rest with the honour of a Special Official Funeral Category 2 in KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal, on Sunday, 12 October, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Mthethwa, who served as South Africa’s Ambassador in Paris, passed away in the French capital on 30 September 2025 at the age of 58. His death has sent shockwaves through both the political and diplomatic spheres, marking the end of a long career dedicated to public service.
Appointed as Ambassador to France in December 2023, Mthethwa had previously held several high-profile ministerial positions over a 15-year period, including Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture; Minister of Arts and Culture; and Minister of Police.
In a statement, the Presidency described Mthethwa’s contribution to South Africa as one rooted in deep political commitment and leadership. President Ramaphosa extended his ‘deepest condolences’ to Mthethwa’s wife, Ms Philisiwe Buthelezi, and the broader Mthethwa and Buthelezi families, adding that the nation is grateful for his years of service in multiple capacities.
The President’s declaration of a Special Official Funeral Category 2 means that the ceremony will include official honours performed by the South African Police Service. As part of the tribute, Ramaphosa also ordered that the National Flag be flown at half-mast from Thursday, 9 October, until the evening of the funeral.
Meanwhile, as preparations for the funeral continue, the South African Police Service has confirmed that one of its senior officers has travelled to France to engage with authorities regarding the investigation into Mthethwa’s death.
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola explained that the trip’s purpose is to obtain a detailed report directly from French officials rather than to conduct a separate inquiry. Earlier reports suggested that Mthethwa’s death was ruled as suicide.
Mthethwa’s remains are expected to be repatriated to South Africa by the end of the week, ahead of Sunday’s official farewell, a ceremony set to honour both his political legacy and diplomatic service to the nation.
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