President Cyril Ramaphosa led tributes to the late Ambassador Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa, hailing him as a “remarkable leader” whose courage, conviction, and compassion were instrumental in steering South Africa towards freedom and justice. Ambassador Mthethwa, who passed away at the age of 58 in Paris, France, where he was stationed as South Africa’s Head of Mission, was laid to rest at a special official funeral held at Dondotha Stadium in Kwambonambi, KwaZulu-Natal, on Sunday, October 12th. His death was declared on Tuesday, September 30th.

Mthethwa’s illustrious life was marked by his unwavering commitment as an anti-apartheid activist. From his teenage years, he joined the students’ movement, which eventually led him to join the ANC’s underground work in the 1980s. President Ramaphosa recounted how Mthethwa was an “unapologetic activist” who refused to accept the injustice of apartheid, responding with resolve to divisive laws. He was actively involved in organizing workers at the Just Juice factory, conducting underground meetings, mobilizing young people, offering comfort in despair, and organizing for peaceful resistance, always placing himself on the frontlines out of a deep belief in the struggle for freedom and the dignity of every person.

Following the dawn of democracy, Mthethwa continued his dedicated service in various prominent political roles. He served as the Minister of Police from 2008 to 2014, and subsequently as the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture from 2014 until March 2023. Additionally, he held positions as a Member of Parliament, Chairperson of the Minerals and Energy Portfolio Committee, and was the Chief Whip of the ANC in 2008. His contributions extended to sports governance, serving on the Board of Directors for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee. President Ramaphosa later selected him as the Ambassador to France, a role he approached with seriousness, focusing not just on diplomacy but on forging friendships, alliances, and mutual respect to ensure South Africa’s story, values, and hopes were known globally, and that global opportunities were open to the nation.

As Minister of Arts, Culture and Sport, Mthethwa was an advocate for culture, heritage, and identity. His work transcended policy, reflecting his profound belief in the power of culture to heal, unite, and affirm national identity, celebrating South Africa’s many languages and traditions as one nation. He was also deeply committed to giving young people space to shine. Numerous political parties, including the African National Congress (ANC) and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), paid tribute to him, with the ANC describing him as a “loyal servant of the people.” ANC NEC member Lindiwe Ntshalintshali further remembered him as a humble and disciplined leader.

Meanwhile, investigations into the circumstances surrounding Ambassador Mthethwa’s death are continuing. Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia announced the deployment of a team of South African Police Service (SAPS) members to France. This team will work closely with French law enforcement authorities to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation into his passing.