WATCH: ANC Leaders Honour Late Ambassador Mthethwa As His Remains Return Home

The African National Congress (ANC) has described the late South African Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, as a “gallant fighter” and a man of “quiet wisdom”.

His mortal remains arrived at OR Tambo International Airport on Friday afternoon, where government officials and party dignitaries gathered to pay their respects.

A memorial service was held in Pretoria, attended by family, friends, and colleagues who remembered Mthethwa’s contributions both in politics and diplomacy.

Family Struggles with Heartbreaking Loss

During the service, the Mthethwa family shared their pain and disbelief at his passing. “It only hit us a week after his death that we would never see Nathi again,” said Sipho Mthethwa, visibly emotional as he reflected on the family’s grief.

The late ambassador’s widow, Philiswe Buthelezi, fought back tears as her husband’s body was received by loved ones and ANC members in KwaZulu-Natal, where he will be laid to rest. The atmosphere was heavy with sorrow as mourners gathered to honour the former minister’s life and legacy.

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Mthethwa, aged 58, died in Paris at the Hyatt Hotel, where it is alleged that he fell from the 22nd floor of the building. The South African Police Service (SAPS) and French authorities have launched investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death.

He will be laid to rest on Sunday in KwaZulu-Natal, as South Africa continues to mourn the loss of a respected statesman who served both his country and his party with distinction.

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