South African ambassador found dead in Paris hotel

Ambassador of South Africa to France Found Deceased

South African authorities have confirmed the death of Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel "Nathi" Mthethwa, aged 58, at the foot of the Hyatt Regency hotel in Porte Maillot, Paris. French media reports indicated that he was reported missing by his wife on Monday afternoon after she received a concerning text message. His location was traced to the Bois de Boulogne, but he was not found there.

According to Paris police, Ambassador Mthethwa had reserved a room on the 22nd floor of the Hyatt hotel. The window of the room, which was secured, appeared to have been forced open. His body was discovered by hotel staff at approximately 1 pm on Tuesday.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his condolences to the ambassador's wife, Ms. Philisiwe Buthelezi, and the extended family. In a public statement, President Ramaphosa acknowledged Ambassador Mthethwa's contributions to enhancing relations between South Africa and France, which have benefited individuals and businesses in both countries.

Ambassador Mthethwa was appointed as South Africa's Ambassador to France and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO in March 2024. His career began as an anti-apartheid activist, joining the African National Congress (ANC) Youth League in 1990. He was elected to the ANC National Executive Committee in 1994, serving as secretary until 2001.

He entered the South African parliament in 2002 and held the position of Chief Whip of the ANC in 2008. Mthethwa subsequently occupied several ministerial roles from 2008 to 2023, including Minister of Arts and Culture, later expanding his portfolio to include sports from 2019 to 2023.

The ANC spokesperson described Mthethwa as a committed advocate for the liberation struggle and a dedicated public servant.

Based on reporting by Africanews.