Ambassador's Body Discovered at Paris Hotel
Nkosinathi Emmanuel 'Nathi' Mthethwa, the 58-year-old South African Ambassador to France, was discovered deceased on Tuesday morning, September 30, 2025, at the foot of the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile hotel in western Paris. His body was found by a security guard in the hotel's inner courtyard.
The discovery followed a missing person report filed by his wife on Monday evening, after she received a 'worrying message' from him.
Investigation Underway
French prosecutor Laure Beccuau confirmed that an investigation has been opened into the circumstances surrounding Ambassador Mthethwa's death. According to the prosecutor, Mthethwa's wife reported receiving a message 'in which he apologised and expressed his intention to take his own life.' Investigators found that a secured window in his 22nd-floor room had been forced open, and scissors were reportedly found nearby.
Initial inquiries suggest that the death may have been a 'deliberate act, without third-party intervention.' Investigators found no signs of a struggle, nor traces of medication or narcotics in Mthethwa's hotel room. While suicide is considered a leading hypothesis, a formal judicial investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause.
Statements from South African Authorities
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed profound sadness at Mthethwa's passing 'in tragic circumstances,' extending condolences to his wife and family. The South African foreign ministry described his death as a 'national loss' and stated that the circumstances are under investigation by French authorities.
Ambassador Mthethwa was appointed to his diplomatic post in December 2023, with a mandate to strengthen bilateral ties between South Africa and France. His distinguished career included serving as South Africa's Minister of Police from 2009 to 2014 and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture from 2019 to 2023.
6 Comments
Coccinella
It's incredibly sad to hear of Ambassador Mthethwa's passing, especially under such circumstances. However, the public deserves complete transparency regarding the ongoing investigation, given his prominent position.
Loubianka
Prayers for his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
Fuerza
His distinguished career is undeniable, and his death is a tragedy for his family and country. Yet, the rapid 'no third-party intervention' conclusion feels premature when key details like a forced window are mentioned.
Ongania
Accepting suicide as the leading hypothesis is tough, particularly for someone in such a high-profile role. Still, it's crucial to await the full findings of the judicial investigation before making definitive conclusions.
Manolo Noriega
Forced window, scissors nearby... Sounds suspicious. Not convinced it was suicide.
Fuerza
The President's condolences are appropriate for such a national loss, but the 'worrying message' and the manner of death suggest there might be more to this story than initially meets the eye, requiring careful scrutiny.