The family of the late South African ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, confirmed they are working with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) to repatriate his remains for a memorial and funeral service.
“Once formal processes are complete, we will work closely with the Dirco to bring Nathi home for a memorial and funeral worthy of his legacy,” The Citizen quoted family spokesperson Dr Sfiso Buthelezi as saying.
Preparations have begun to return the remains of South Africa’s ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa. #Newzroom405‘s @SilethiweNdlovu is at the Mthethwa family home in KwaMbonambi.
Watch: https://t.co/4XHuc0VjFR pic.twitter.com/rLjCuTU7pc
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) October 1, 2025
French authorities are investigating his death, with no possibilities ruled out.
At the time of his passing, Nathi did not have a security detail, Dirco said.
Some family members expressed unhappiness over how they were informed and have requested more information from the ANC and government.
The family expressed gratitude for public support and for the government and French authorities’ cooperation.
Nathi served in various ministerial roles, including minister of safety and security, police, arts and culture, and sports, arts and culture, before his tenure as ambassador.
X (formerly Twitter) users had this to say:
Current situation right now Nathi Mthethwa in Thailand with new Identity by the name “Ongbank Chai wang Nyambose” watching yall worried about him pic.twitter.com/TAUX5uEo3s
— ChrisExcel (@ChrisExcel102) September 30, 2025
One day a Cashier will take this photo of Nathi Mthethwa 🤞 pic.twitter.com/ju9pYyM7pj
— Lisa the First (@Lisathe_first) October 1, 2025
First published by African Insider
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
Also see: Conspiracy corner: Nathi Mthethwa’s unexpected death connected to corruption exposure?