Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
South Africa’s ruling party, the African National Congress, has described the late former Minister of Police, Nkosinathi “Nathi” Emmanuel Mthethwa, as a committed and dedicated civil servant.
Mthethwa passed away at a hotel in Paris, France, where he was serving as the country’s ambassador.
The French authorities have opened full-scale investigations into the sudden demise of the diplomat.
Before his posting to France in 2023, Ambassador Mthethwa had served on the Board of Directors for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee and had also been the Police Minister.
In a statement on Tuesday, the ANC said it was devastated by the death of the diplomat and icon of the liberation struggle.
“The African National Congress (ANC) is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Comrade Nathi Mthethwa, a stalwart of our movement, former Minister and Ambassador. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and comrades during this difficult time,” said the ANC.
“Comrade Mthethwa was not merely a public official; he was a committed cadre of the liberation struggle and a dedicated servant of the people in our democratic era. His life was one both struggle and service.
“From the years of resistance, clandestine work and sacrifice. Comrade Mthethwa contributed to the collective efforts that won our democracy. In post 1994 era, he accepted the responsibilities of shaping new South Africa”.
The ANC said the late ambassador had also served in multiple ministerial posts including as Minister of Safety and Security between 2008 and 2009, Minister of Police between 2009 and 2014, Minister of Arts and Culture between May 2014 and May 2019 before becoming Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture between May 2019 and March 2023.
The party said in every role, the late, brought transformation, cohesion and dignity to South Africans.
The ambassador was also a member of the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Working Committee (NWC) between 2007 and 2022.
