The family of South Africa’s late ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, has performed a traditional ritual at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Paris, where he died last week, 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,” he said on Thursday.
“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 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.”
Asked whether the visit brought any clarity about the incident, Mkhululi said the family is still awaiting the results of official investigations.
“No one will really understand at this moment. For us, it’s about getting a step closer to closure. We are relying on authorities and professionals to give us more detailed information. Right now, our focus is on closure and laying my father to rest.”
Mkhululi confirmed that his uncle, Dr Sifiso Buthelezi, will serve as the family’s liaison with South African Police Service (SAPS) investigator in Paris to stay informed about developments in the case.
News previously reported that traditional healers and cultural experts have commended the family’s decision to perform the ritual, warning that failure to do so could have spiritual and generational consequences.
Mthethwa’s remains are expected to arrive at OR Tambo International Airport on Friday morning following repatriation from France.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has confirmed that an official memorial service will be held on Friday at the DIRCO Conference Centre, OR Tambo Building, in Rietondale, Pretoria.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a Special Official Funeral (Category 2) for Mthethwa, recognising his decades of service to the liberation struggle and to South Africa’s democratic government.
“It means a great deal to us,” said Mkhululi. “My father dedicated his life from a young age to the liberation and emancipation of our people. For the state to honour him in this way is a reflection of his lifelong commitment.”
The funeral will take place on Sunday in KwaMthethwa, KwaZulu-Natal, where the ambassador will be laid to rest among his ancestors.
French authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Mthethwa’s death. He was 58 years old.
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