By Marcu Moloko
The family of the late South African Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, say they are still awaiting the official death certificate as French authorities complete an autopsy.
Family spokesperson Dr Sfiso Buthelezi confirmed on Thursday that the family expects to receive the certificate next Tuesday and plans to repatriate the 58-year-old diplomat later in the week.
He said the French police were also reviewing surveillance footage to determine whether anyone entered the ambassador’s hotel room prior to his death on Tuesday.
“Mthethwa’s body is still at a French government mortuary,” Buthelezi said.
Buthelezi, who arrived in Paris shortly after the ambassador’s passing on Wednesday afternoon, said the French police had been working closely with the family, including his wife, Philisiwe Buthelezi.
“The police came to the residence to update us on the investigation and handed over some of his belongings, including a coat, a cap and a remote. They assured us they were checking hotel cameras to see exactly what happened and whether anyone accessed his room before he did – or after he entered the room. They assured us they did not find anything suspicious so far.”
He added that the ambassador had checked into the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile on 29 September, with his stay booked for the same day.
Responding to questions about Mthethwa’s mental health, Buthelezi dismissed speculation that he had shown signs of distress.
“On Saturday, he attended a commemoration of South African World War I soldiers in France with embassy staff. He even sent us a video of himself performing indlamu, looking jovial and in high spirits. To contrast that with what happened on Monday is very difficult to reconcile,” said Buthelezi.
He said the family extended gratitude to South Africans for the outpouring of tributes following the untimely death of Mthethwa.
“We would like to thank South Africans in their millions for their support and condolences; from the clergy, traditional leaders and the public at large. The passing of Ambassador Mthethwa is indeed a deep loss,” Buthelezi said.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has appealed for patience while French authorities conclude their investigations.
DIRCO Deputy Minister Alvin Botes told reporters: “There will be a conclusive outcome from French authorities. Preliminary probes will lead to clarity, and we appeal to the media to await the official outcome.”
A family member, Khulekani Mthethwa, said funeral arrangements would be confirmed once repatriation details were finalized.
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