Nathi Mthethwa, South Africa's ambassador to France, has been found dead near the four-star Hyatt Regency Hotel in Paris, as confirmed by French officials.
The 58-year-old diplomat was reported missing by his wife following a worrying message she received from him. Authorities noted that he had checked into a room on the 22nd floor of the hotel, and that the security window in his room had been forced open.
At this time, the details surrounding his death remain unclear, prompting an investigation by the Paris prosecutor's office, with a duty magistrate dispatched to the scene.
Mthethwa was a significant figure in the African National Congress (ANC), the political party that transitioned South Africa to democratic rule in 1994 with Nelson Mandela at the forefront. He had held his ambassadorial position since December 2023 and was known for his past roles as police minister and arts and culture minister.
A close ally of former President Jacob Zuma, Mthethwa was noted in the state capture inquiry that looked into allegations of corruption during Zuma’s time in presidency.
South Africa’s Foreign Minister, Ronald Lamola, paid tribute to Mthethwa, calling him a distinguished servant of the nation and underscoring the impact of his loss felt both nationally and globally within the diplomatic community. Lamola confirmed that French authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the tragic incident.
