Paris, France – South Africa has been left reeling after the death of Nkosinathi “Nathi” Emmanuel Mthethwa, the country’s Ambassador to France and former cabinet minister, who was found dead in Paris early Tuesday morning, a day after he was reported missing.
French media reported that the 58-year-old diplomat’s body was discovered near the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile in the Porte Maillot district. While it is suspected that he fell from the 22nd floor of the hotel, authorities have not yet confirmed the exact circumstances of his death.
Mthethwa was reported missing on Monday evening, and his disappearance was followed by the grim discovery of his body the next day. Both French and South African authorities have since opened investigations into the incident.
While his tenure was marked by controversy, particularly his handling of the Marikana tragedy and criticism from the arts community, Mthethwa remained a central figure in the ruling African National Congress before moving into the diplomatic corps.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) confirmed his death and described it as “a national loss.” It said the South African government is working closely with French authorities to establish the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Public figures, political parties, and civil society groups in South Africa have expressed shock and sadness at the news, calling Mthethwa’s death a painful moment for the nation.
Anyone with additional information relating to this story can contact us through email press@townpress.co.za.
Facebook Comments