KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has announced that the late South African Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2.
Mthethwa, a prominent political leader and former Cabinet Minister, passed away in Paris last week at the age of 58. The circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation.
During a visit to the Mthethwa family home in Kwa-Mbonambi, northern KwaZulu-Natal, Premier Ntuli stated that the provincial government is collaborating with national authorities to ensure a dignified farewell that reflects the late ambassador’s stature and decades of service.
“Ambassador Mthethwa dedicated his life to the liberation struggle and later to building democratic institutions in our country,” Ntuli said. “As a government, we are united in ensuring that his final send-off honours his contribution to South Africa’s political and diplomatic life.”
The Premier explained that the Special Official Funeral Category 2 is reserved for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to public life. The ceremony will include military honours and will be attended by official representatives from both provincial and national governments.
The funeral service is tentatively scheduled for Sunday, with final arrangements pending the repatriation of his remains from France. A delegation of senior South African Police Service (SAPS) officials and government representatives is assisting French authorities with the process.
Earlier this week, a team of South African investigators was dispatched to Paris to support the French police inquiry. Family members who travelled to France are expected to return with his body later this week.
Justice Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams has reportedly requested an urgent briefing with SAPS officials on the investigation, which has garnered significant national attention.
Born in Kwa-Mbonambi, Mthethwa was a long-time member of the ANC. He previously served as Minister of Police, Minister of Arts and Culture, and most recently as Ambassador to France. In these roles, he was known for strengthening South Africa’s cultural diplomacy and championing the nation’s creative industries.
Premier Ntuli described Mthethwa as “a patriot and servant of the people whose leadership extended beyond politics.”
“He was deeply committed to public service and remained an active advocate for the arts, culture, and justice, even during his diplomatic posting in France,” Ntuli added.
As tributes pour in from across the political spectrum, preparations for Sunday’s funeral are being finalised in coordination with the Presidency, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), and the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government.
Officials stated that further details, including the venue and programme, will be announced once logistical arrangements are confirmed.
The Mthethwa family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the public, government departments, and the diplomatic community as they mourn the loss of a “beloved father, brother, and leader.”
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