BREAKING | Government confirms former Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa's death in France
South Africa’s ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, has been found dead in Paris, just a day after he was reported missing.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation confirmed on Tuesday that Mthethwa died in France.
The circumstances surrounding his death are being investigated by French authorities.
Mthethwa, 57, was appointed South Africa’s ambassador to the French Republic in December 2023.
His diplomatic posting followed a long political career that saw him serve as Minister of Police and later as Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture.
He also served on the board of directors of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee, helping steer one of the country’s most celebrated sporting milestones.
Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola described Mthethwa’s death as a loss “not only to South Africa but also to the international diplomatic community.”
“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 a long-time member of the ANC where he held leadership roles in some of the party’s top decision-making structures.
In a statement, the government extended condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, praising his “unwavering patriotism and service to the nation.”
Mthethwa is survived by his wife and children.
According to French media reports, the 58-year-old diplomat’s body was discovered outside the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile in the Porte Maillot district.
It is alleged that he fell from the 22nd floor of the hotel, though local authorities have not yet confirmed the exact circumstances surrounding his death.
Mthethwa was officially reported missing on Monday evening. His sudden disappearance and subsequent death have prompted both French authorities to launch investigations.
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