Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma shared warm memories of Nathi Mthethwa, the late ambassador to France, during a visit to his home in KwaZulu-Natal.

She remembered him as a dedicated soldier who respected her and recalled advising him to travel to Paris alone as ambassador. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma encouraged Nathi to follow protocol, which he later appreciated.

Nathi’s life was marked by significant contributions to South African politics. Born on January 23, 1967, in Clermont, KwaZulu-Natal, he rose to prominence in the ANC Youth League and joined the National Assembly in 2002.

He served as Minister of Police from 2008 to 2014 and later as Minister of Arts and Culture until 2023. Nathi was appointed Ambassador to France in 2023, presenting his credentials on February 29, 2024.

His tenure was not without controversy, including his involvement in the Nkandla-gate scandal and criticism for his handling of the Marikana massacre. He faced allegations of benefiting from a police slush fund and was eventually removed from the cabinet by President Cyril Ramaphosa in March 2023.

Despite these challenges, Nathi remained committed to public service, and his appointment as Ambassador to France marked a new chapter in his career. Tragically, he was found deceased at the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile hotel on September 30, 2025, with French authorities suspecting suicide.