South African Ambassador to France Found Dead in Paris Hotel

South Africa’s Ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa, was found dead on Tuesday, September 30, beneath the Hyatt Regency hotel in Paris. French authorities believe he fell from the 22nd floor, where he had booked a room.

His wife had reported him missing the previous evening after receiving a troubling message that hinted at suicidal intent.

Investigators found the hotel window forcibly opened despite security mechanisms, but no signs of struggle or narcotics were present in the room. French prosecutors are currently exploring both suicide and accidental fall as possible causes.

Mthethwa, 58, was a prominent figure in South African politics, having served as Minister of Police and later as Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture before his diplomatic appointment in 2024. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief, with President Cyril Ramaphosa calling it “a moment of deep grief” and a national loss.