Ambassador found dead in Paris hotel, investigations underway
South Africa’s Ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, has been found dead in Paris under circumstances French authorities are investigating.
The body of the 58-year-old diplomat was discovered near the Hyatt Hotel in the Porte Maillot area on Tuesday, following a report from his wife the previous evening. She had informed police after receiving a concerning message from him.
Prosecutors say that Mthethwa had booked a room on the 22nd floor of the hotel. One of the windows in that room was reported forced open.
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He was reported missing on Monday afternoon, prompting searches after his phone was traced to the area around Bois de Boulogne. Local media say authorities deployed search teams including dogs.
His diplomatic posting to France began in February 2024. He was also South Africa’s permanent delegate to UNESCO. Before that, he held several high-profile positions in government including service as Minister of Police and later Minister of Arts and Culture, and Sport, Arts and Culture.
South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has acknowledged the reports, saying they are aware of “unfortunate reports” concerning Ambassador Mthethwa and that more information will be shared once established.
The Paris prosecutor’s office stated that while a fall is the apparent cause of death, the investigation remains open and suicide has not been ruled out. Authorities are examining whether foul play may have been involved.
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The incident has triggered reactions back home, with some public figures expressing their condolences. The South African foreign ministry described Mthethwa’s passing as “untimely” in an official statement.
Mthethwa’s political career spanned decades. He served in the executive government, including as police minister from 2009 to 2014, and later as minister in charge of arts and culture.
Following the discovery of his body, French law enforcement secured the scene. A duty magistrate is involved, and officials say that the 34-floor Hyatt hotel is part of the jurisdiction under inquiry.
The case remains under active investigation by French authorities. No final determination has yet been made as to the cause of death.
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