South Africa is mourning the sudden death of its ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, who was found dead outside a high-rise hotel in Paris on Monday night.
According to French prosecutors, the 58-year-old diplomat had been reported missing by his wife after she received a worrying text message from him. His body was later discovered at the foot of the Hyatt Regency Hotel, where he had booked a room on the 22nd floor. Authorities confirmed that a secured window had been forced open, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death are ongoing.
A Distinguished Public Career
South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation described Mthethwa’s passing as a “national loss”, hailing his decades-long service in government and diplomacy.
Mthethwa held several high-ranking ministerial roles:
- Minister of Safety and Security (2008–2009)
- Minister of Police (2009–2014)
- Minister of Arts and Culture (2014–2019)
- Minister of Arts, Culture and Sport (2019–2023)
He also served on the board of directors for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee and was a member of parliament from 2002 to 2023.
Legacy of Service
In a statement, the foreign affairs department said:
“Ambassador Mthethwa was a distinguished servant of the nation, whose career was marked by dedicated service in critical ministerial portfolios. His lifelong commitment to public duty was further exemplified by his longstanding contribution to the African National Congress through its highest decision-making structures.”
Mthethwa’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s political and diplomatic circles, with tributes pouring in for a leader remembered for his commitment to public duty and national service.
French authorities have opened an inquiry into the circumstances of his death.
