Paris, France – South Africa’s ambassador to France, Emmanuel Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa, was found dead in the courtyard of a hotel in Paris on the morning of Monday, September 30, 2025. The former cabinet minister and diplomat, aged 58, was discovered at the base of the Hyatt Regency hotel in the western part of the city. His death is currently under investigation by French authorities.
According to officials, Mthethwa had checked into a room on the 22nd floor of the hotel the night before. That same evening, his wife reported him missing after receiving a disturbing message in which he allegedly apologized and hinted at suicidal intentions. His hotel room was later found with the window forced open, despite the security mechanisms designed to prevent such access. Authorities believe he may have jumped from the window, though no definitive conclusions have been reached yet.
Initial findings suggest there were no signs of struggle in the room, and no drugs or alcohol have been confirmed as factors. While suicide is currently the leading theory, investigators are keeping all possibilities open until a full forensic and autopsy report is completed.
Ambassador Mthethwa had a long-standing career in public service. He previously served as South Africa’s Minister of Police, and later as Minister of Arts and Culture, before his role was expanded to oversee the Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture. In 2023, he was appointed South Africa’s Ambassador to France and also served as the country’s permanent delegate to UNESCO.
His sudden death has shocked both the diplomatic and political communities. President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Mthethwa as a dedicated public servant who had contributed significantly to the development of democratic South Africa. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation also mourned his passing, calling it a “devastating loss.”
Beyond the personal tragedy, the incident raises a number of unresolved questions. Investigators are examining why the window’s safety lock was broken, and what led to Mthethwa’s state of mind at the time. The contents of the message to his wife, while undisclosed, appear to be central to the inquiry.
As investigations continue in Paris, tributes continue to pour in from across the world. Mthethwa is being remembered for his decades of service, his leadership in culture and security, and his recent work in strengthening South Africa’s global relations. The nation awaits further clarity from authorities in France as preparations begin to return his body home.
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