By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The family of South Africa’s Ambassador to France Nathi Mthethwa has confirmed receipt of his death certificate, though his remains are yet to be released pending a post-mortem.
Mthethwa, who was 58, was found dead outside the Hyatt Regency hotel in Paris on Tuesday, 30 September. The tragedy is still being investigated.
Family spokesperson and brother-in-law, Dr Sfiso Buthelezi confirmed the receipt of the death certificate, saying it will assist to start the process of repatriation of his remains.
“The body is in the government mortuary (Paris). They must still do the autopsy. They said they think by Monday, at the latest, Tuesday, they’ll finish their processes, and they can hand the body over to us. Then we must start the process of repatriating the remains back home.”
Mthethwa’s autopsy report is expected on Monday or Tuesday.
Buthelezi added that the family rejects unsubstantiated claims, such as suicide narratives, until the full report is out.
South Africa meanwhile will conduct a parallel probe, after sending high level delegation of investigators to France to assist with the investigation.
Buthelezi welcomed the deployment of investigators to Paris.
“I received a call from the National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, who conveyed his sincere condolences to the family. He further informed us that he will be sending a highly experienced and capable team to work alongside the French authorities in probing the passing of the late ambassador, Nathi Mthethwa.”
As the family, we welcome this development and deeply appreciate the support of the South African Police Service in this important matter.
Buthelezi said the investigator’s involvement will assist in providing the family with the closure they greatly need.
Mthethwa began serving as South Africa’s envoy to France in December 2023 – his latest role in a series of high-profile portfolios that included stints as police minister, as well as the minister of sports, arts and culture.
As a young man, he campaigned against apartheid, a racist policy that kept Blacks and Whites apart, and grew through the ranks of the African National Congress (ANC) party, which fought for democratic rule in South Africa.
Mthethwa also served in the nation’s parliament and sat on the board of directors for the 2010 FIFA World Cup local organizing committee.
ANC stalwarts like Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Jeff Radebe and Senzo Mchunu, have visited his home in Kwazulu-Natal to offer support. The Paris embassy also has opened a book of condolences until 8 October for public tributes.