South Africa’s ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, was found dead at a Paris hotel on Tuesday, a day after sending his wife a message indicating his intention to end his life, according to French prosecutors.
The 58-year-old diplomat, appointed ambassador in December 2023, had booked a room on the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Regency hotel about ten days earlier. On Monday evening, he checked in around 4:30 p.m. but failed to appear at a scheduled cocktail party later that night.
At 9:30 p.m., Mthethwa sent a message to his wife apologizing and stating his plan to take his own life. When she reported him missing, authorities launched a search. The next morning, around 11:30 a.m., a security guard discovered his body in the hotel’s courtyard.
Details of the investigation
Paris public prosecutor Laure Beccuau said investigators found scissors near the scene and noted that the hotel window’s safety mechanism had been forced open. Authorities reported no signs of a struggle or traces of narcotics or medication.
While initial findings suggest the death was self-inflicted, prosecutors confirmed that law enforcement will continue investigating “to gather any evidence useful to understanding the facts.”
Tributes and National Mourning
South Africa’s foreign ministry confirmed Mthethwa’s death “with deep sorrow and profound regret,” extending condolences to his family.
Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola described the loss as not only a national tragedy but also a blow to the international diplomatic community. President Cyril Ramaphosa paid tribute on social media, highlighting Mthethwa’s decades of service:
He served our nation in diverse capacities during a lifetime that has ended prematurely and traumatically.
Before his diplomatic appointment, Mthethwa served as a member of parliament and as South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture.
Mental health support
The tragic circumstances surrounding his passing underscore the importance of mental health awareness.
About the Author
