Tragedy in Paris: South African Ambassador Dies at Hotel.

Tragedy in Paris: South African Ambassador Dies at Hotel.

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South Africa’s ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, was found dead on September 30, 2025, outside the Hyatt Regency hotel in Paris. He was 58 years old.

According to French authorities, Mthethwa had booked a room on the 22nd floor, where a secured window was later discovered forced open.

His wife, who was also in Paris, reported him missing the night before after receiving a troubling message in which he expressed intent to end his life.

Mthethwa was scheduled to attend a diplomatic cocktail event that evening but never arrived.

His body was discovered in the hotel courtyard the following morning.

French investigators found no signs of foul play, and early reports suggest suicide.

The South African government confirmed his death with “deep sorrow and profound regret,” while President Cyril Ramaphosa called it a “moment of deep grief,” praising Mthethwa’s decades of public service.

Mthethwa previously served as South Africa’s Minister of Police and held other senior government roles.

His death comes just weeks after a judicial commission began investigating alleged political interference during his tenure—adding a layer of complexity to an already tragic loss.

During his time as Minister of Police, the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry was established by the South African government to investigate political interference, corruption, and criminality within the justice system.

Chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, the commission recently heard testimony from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Mthethwa of trying to block the prosecution of Richard Mdluli, a top intelligence official facing corruption charges.

Mthethwa, who died before he could testify, was expected to respond to these allegations in the coming weeks.

Yetunde B reports for Yeyetunde’s Blog.