The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) is saddened by news of the passing of South Africa’s Ambassador to France, Comrade Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa.

The Federation sends its heartfelt condolences to the Mthethwa family, his friends and colleagues, and to the entire nation. Mthethwa served the country diligently as minister in two portfolios, first as Minister of Police from 2008 to 2014 and then as Minister of Arts and Culture from 2014 to 2023.

A devoted member of the African National Congress, Comrade Nathi rose through the ranks of the ANC Youth League from regional secretary of the Southern Natal branch to Secretary of Organising. He joined the National Assembly in 2002 and was elected to the ANC National Executive Committee and National Working Committee in December 2007, serving on both until December 2022. Those who worked closely with him as Chief Whip of the Majority Party in the National Assembly described him as hard working.

Born in KwaZulu Natal on 23 January 1967, he studied community development at the University of Natal and later added a certificate in mining engineering from the University of Johannesburg to his credentials along with a certificate in communications and leadership from Rhodes University.

A little-known fact is that Mthethwa was a shop steward for former COSATU affiliate, Food and Allied Workers Union (FAWU) and it is through his activism in the union that he came across the then banned ANC.

The ANC and Alliance are poorer today, having lost a dedicated soldier of Comrade Nathi’s stature.

Issued by COSATU

Zanele Sabela (COSATU National Spokesperson)
Mobile: 079 287 5788 or 077 600 6639
Email: zaneles@cosatu.org.za