Cape Town – The late South African Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, had not received any communication from the Madlanga Commission regarding testimony in which his name reportedly arose, according to his brother-in-law, Sifiso Buthelezi.
Speaking to reporters, Buthelezi said he personally discussed the matter with Mthethwa after hearing that the former police minister’s name had come up during testimony by Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, a key witness at the commission.
Buthelezi said Mthethwa had reassured him that the references were “a non-issue” and did not require any action on his part.
[ICYMI] Nathi Mthethwa’s brother-in-law Sifiso Buthelezi says the late SA Ambassador to France had not received any form of communication from the Madlanga Commission. Buthelezi says he spoke to Mthethwa about his name coming up in Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s testimony, and the former… pic.twitter.com/Q2LyhOMUmc
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) October 3, 2025
The Madlanga Commission, established to investigate allegations of state capture and irregularities within the police service, has been hearing testimony from several high-profile figures over the past months.
Mkhwanazi has been one of the central witnesses, providing evidence on alleged misconduct and irregular decision-making in the police department.
Mthethwa, who passed away recently in Paris under circumstances that have prompted both domestic and international attention, had served in various government positions, including as police minister, before being appointed ambassador.
His diplomatic tenure in France was marked by efforts to strengthen South Africa–France relations and promote trade and cultural exchange.
Family members have stressed that Mthethwa’s passing was untimely and that he remained focused on his diplomatic duties until his death.
The Madlanga Commission has not publicly commented on whether any formal follow-up is planned in relation to Mthethwa’s name appearing in testimony.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu

