Overview

• The Category 2 Special Official Funeral took place at the Siyabonga Sangweni Sports Complex, with SAPS ceremonial honors and a service that began at 9:00.
• President Cyril Ramaphosa praised Mthethwa’s lifelong activism and loyalty to ANC principles, calling him a dedicated public servant and thinker in the liberation movement.
• Mourners from across parties, including ANC and IFP figures, highlighted his role in fostering peace in KwaZulu-Natal and cooperation between political rivals.
• French authorities are investigating his death after a reported fall from a Paris hotel’s 22nd floor, and South Africa will deploy a SAPS team to work with counterparts in France.
• Family members described performing a traditional ritual in the Paris hotel room before repatriation and shared emotional tributes at the service, while ANC figures noted that allegations raised at the Madlanga commission would be addressed by the Police Ministry.