SA’s Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa Mysteriously Dies in Paris

Nathi Mthetwa dies at 58 in France. (Kaya News)

by Mathipa Phishego

South Africa’s Ambassador, Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, has been found dead in France after reportedly falling from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile in the Porte Maillot district. The 58-year-old diplomat was discovered on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, after being reported missing the previous day.

Mthethwa’s wife alerted French authorities on Monday evening after receiving a concerning message from him. His phone was last detected near the Bois de Boulogne in western Paris around 3 p.m. that day. Fearing a possible suicide, police initiated an intensive search involving canine units.

His body was discovered on Tuesday near the hotel. The Paris prosecutor’s office has confirmed the details, and the investigation is ongoing.

Born on January 23, 1967, in Clermont, Natal Province, South Africa, Mthethwa was a seasoned politician and diplomat. He served as South Africa’s Ambassador to France from 2024 until his death in 2025.

Prior to his diplomatic appointment, Mthethwa held several key positions, including Minister of Police, Minister of Arts and Culture, and Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture. He was a member of the African National Congress (ANC) and represented the party in the National Assembly from 2002 to 2023.

French authorities, including the Brigade for the Repression of Crime against Persons, are conducting an urgent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mthethwa’s death.

At this time, there has been no official statement from the South African government.  Reports  indicate that embassy staff and the family are cooperating fully with French authorities.