French authorities have launched an investigation into the sudden death of South Africa’s Ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, who was found lifeless outside a hotel in western Paris on Monday night.
Mthethwa, 58, was discovered near the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Porte Maillot, hours after his wife reported him missing, following what she described as a “worrying message” earlier in the evening. His body was later located, French media outlets Le Parisien and Le Figaro reported.
Paris police confirmed the ambassador’s death but withheld details about the circumstances, saying only that the matter is under investigation. Neither the Hyatt Regency Hotel nor the South African Embassy in Paris provided comment when contacted by Reuters.
On Tuesday, the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) issued a formal statement announcing the diplomat’s passing, calling it a national tragedy.
“The Government of the Republic of South Africa announces with deep sorrow and profound regret the untimely passing of His Excellency Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa, South Africa’s Ambassador to the French Republic,” the statement read.
DIRCO highlighted Mthethwa’s long record of public service, noting his previous roles as Minister of Police, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, and as a member of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee Board.
“The circumstances of his untimely death are under investigation by the French authorities. The Government of South Africa extends its deepest condolences to the family of Ambassador Mthethwa, and to his friends and colleagues during this period of immense grief. He is survived by his wife and children. We honour his legacy of unwavering patriotism and service to our nation,” the statement added.
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, also paid tribute, describing the loss as devastating both at home and abroad.
“I have no doubt that his passing is not only a national loss but is also felt within the international diplomatic community,” Lamola said.
Mthethwa was appointed Ambassador to France in December 2023, following a distinguished political career that included overseeing South Africa’s cultural and sporting sectors from 2014 to 2023 before transitioning into diplomacy.
