DONDOTHA - IFP leaders paid tribute to Nathi Mthethwa before he was laid to rest on Sunday in KwaZulu-Natal.
KZN Premier Thami Ntuli, Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa and KZN MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula, said Mthethwa played a critical role in bringing the ANC and IFP together in the province.
WATCH: Lamola: No foul play in Nathi Mthethwa's death
Ntuli said Mthethwa always advocated for peace and stability in the province and also worked hard for the development of the province.
He says the baton he carried must be taken forward.
The late South African Ambassador to France died two weeks ago after falling from the 22nd floor of a hotel in Paris.
The 58-year-old had been reported missing before his body was discovered.
LIVESTREAM: Nathi Mthethwa funeral service
His remains were repatriated from France on Friday and will be laid to rest on Sunday in KwaMbonambi, northern KwaZulu-Natal.
Family, friends, and colleagues gathered to bid him farewell.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has granted the late ambassador a special official funeral category 2 and will deliver the eulogy at his funeral.