South African Ambassador Found Dead Outside Paris Hotel

File photo courtesy of Soyth African Embassy

South Africa's ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel "Nathi" Mthethwa, was discovered dead outside the Hyatt Regency hotel in Paris on Tuesday. The Paris prosecutor's office confirmed the grim news, with South Africa's government expressing "deep sorrow and profound regret" over his untimely passing. An investigation by French authorities is currently underway to understand the circumstances surrounding the ambassador's death.

Mthethwa's wife reported him missing on Monday evening after receiving a concerning text message. Police were alerted following her distress call, and it was later unveiled that Mthethwa's hotel room on the 22nd floor had a secured window that appeared to have been forcibly opened. Reports from French media, such as Le Parisien, suggest investigators suspect suicide as a potential cause, though no official conclusion has been made.

Nkosinathi Mthethwa previously held the position of South Africa's Minister of Police between 2009 and 2014. Recently, a Judicial Commission of Inquiry began examining allegations of corruption and political interference within South Africa's criminal justice system. Just weeks ago, Nhlanhla Mkwanazi, the provincial police commissioner in Kwa-Zulu Natal, accused Mthethwa of interfering with a high-profile investigation during his tenure as national police minister.

The news of Mthethwa's passing has elicited sorrowful reactions from South African leaders. President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his grief, acknowledging Mthethwa’s contributions to the nation across various roles throughout his career.

Key Takeaways

• South African ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, found dead in Paris.
• Investigation underway; circumstances suggest possible suicide.
• Mthethwa had a prominent political career, recently facing allegations.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from CBS News 2025-10-01