Nathi Mthethwa
Nathi Mthethwa was a South African politician who served as Minister of Police under President Jacob Zuma and later as Minister of Arts and Culture under President Cyril Ramaphosa. He was embroiled in controversy, facing allegations of political interference and misappropriation of police funds during his tenure, particularly related to the crime intelligence unit. Mthethwa's political career was marked by significant scrutiny, including accusations of negligence towards the arts sector during the COVID-19 pandemic. He died in Paris, just before he could respond to serious allegations against him during a commission of inquiry.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Nathi Mthethwa was the police minister during the Marikana massacre and was criticized by Bheki Cele.
I would have avoided the Marikana massacre – The Mail & Guardian
South Africa· 2025-10-24
Nathi Mthethwa was a former minister and ambassador to France whose death raised painful questions about the circumstances surrounding it.
Paris, death destination of ambassadors past and present – The Mail & GuardianSouth Africa· 2025-10-17
Nathi Mthethwa recently died while serving as ambassador to France.
Inspector-general Imtiaz Fazel suspended in the latest scandal to hit crime intelligence – The Mail & GuardianSouth Africa· 2025-10-16
Nathi Mthethwa benefitted from looted crime intelligence funds.
Mthethwa looting claims reappear – The Mail & GuardianSouth Africa· 2025-10-10
Even the recent suicide of South Africa’s ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, has renewed public scrutiny.
Mafia Land and the making of a gangster state – The Mail & GuardianSouth Africa· 2025-10-09
Nathi Mthethwa is the former police minister implicated in shielding Richard Mdluli.
Madlanga inquiry adjourns early as crime intelligence boss Dumisani Khumalo falls ill – The Mail & GuardianSouth Africa· 2025-10-01
Nathi Mthethwa was a former South African police minister who was found dead at a Paris hotel.
Former South African police minister Nathi Mthethwa found dead at Paris hotel
New Zealand· 2025-09-30Nathi Mthethwa, the former minister of sports, arts and culture and current ambassador to France, has been found dead at a hotel in Paris.
South Africa’s ambassador to France Nathi Mthethwa found dead in Paris – The Mail & GuardianSouth Africa· 2025-09-30
Nathi Mthethwa died before he could answer allegations of political interference during his time as the police boss.
Mthethwa dies before answering for his role in police capture – The Mail & GuardianSouth Africa· 2025-09-30
