Nathi Mthethwa’s remains arrives at OR Tambo Airport

The remains of former South African ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, arrived at the OR Tambo International Airport on Friday morning before being transported to his home in KwaZulu-Natal.

Mthethwa, who previously served as Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, died after falling from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Paris. He was 58.

His family performed a traditional ritual at the hotel to fetch his spirit before bringing his remains home.

Mthethwa’s son, Mkhululi, confirmed that the ceremony was held in the hotel room on the 22nd floor, from which the ambassador is believed to have fallen to his death.

“It means everything to us. We are people who pride ourselves on who we are, and this is part of who we are. We can’t lay him to rest without going through this process. It’s very crucial and sacred to our people,” he said.

He described the experience as deeply emotional and traumatic.

“It’s extremely traumatic. We were granted access to the room to witness his last views. We held a small prayer as a family, trying to absorb the reality of what happened,” he said.

“It’s not easy to see where his last breath was. We wanted to settle any unanswered questions within us.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a Special Official Funeral (Category 2) for Mthethwa. The funeral will take place on Sunday in KwaMthethwa, KZN.

French authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.

An official memorial service for the late ambassador will be held on Friday in Pretoria, where his former colleagues, government officials and other dignitaries are expected to pay tribute. 

ANC deputy secretary-general Nomvula Mokonyane is expected to deliver a message of support.

On Thursday, the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal held a memorial service in Pinetown.

Speaking at the event, former police minister Bheki Cele condemned South Africans for showing little sympathy following Mthethwa’s death.

“South Africans, you are Sodom and Gomorrah. I don’t care… You have no hearts nor consciences, you’re monsters,” he said.

His remarks came after mixed public reactions to Mthethwa’s passing, with some linking him to alleged corruption and wrongdoing - claims the family has strongly rejected.

“But all is well… We hope that Mthethwa will arrive on time tomorrow,” Cele said, referring to the expected arrival of his remains on Friday.

“We will be able to bury him, and we hope that he will look back at his politics and influence certain people to get the ANC on the right path.”

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

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