The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) has learned with sadness about the passing of Ambassador Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa in Paris. He was serving as South Africa’s ambassador to France after having been appointed to this position in December 2023, tasked with strengthening the bilateral ties between South Africa and France.
He was elected to the National Assembly in 2002 and chaired the Minerals and Energy Portfolio Committee, before becoming the ANC Chief Whip in 2008. He was appointed as Minister of Safety and Security, which would later be renamed as Minister of Police, from 2008 to 2014. He then served as Minister of Arts and Culture from 2014 to 2019, adding Sports to his portfolio from 2019 to 2023.
He also served on the Board of Directors for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee.
The circumstances around his untimely death are under investigation by local French authorities.
On behalf of Rev Kenneth Meshoe MP and the leadership of the ACDP, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Ambassador Mthethwa, and to his friends and colleagues.
May our Heavenly Father comfort them at this sad time.