Midrand: EgyPulse – News Desk
South Africa’s ambassador to France has been found dead at the foot of the Hyatt Hotel, a high-rise tower in Porte Maillot in the west of Paris, newspaper Le Parisien reports. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation confirmed his death on Tuesday. Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa was serving as South Africa’s ambassador to France at the time of his death.
The ambassador had been reported missing by his wife after she received a text message from him that worried her, Le Parisien reported. He previously served in cabinet as minister of arts and culture from 2014 to 2019, adding sports to his portfolio from 2019 to 2023. He was appointed by President Kgalema Motlanthe as Minister of Safety and Security, which would later be renamed as Minister of Police. He worked in the police portfolio from 2008 to 2014.
After rising through the ranks of the ANC Youth League, Mthethwa joined the National Assembly in 2002. A spokesperson at South Africa’s foreign affairs department said they were “aware of unfortunate reports pertaining to Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa” and would issue a statement once there was official information. The statement came an hour or so later, with the department acknowledging and confirming the death, saying that it was untimely and a “national loss”. It added that the circumstances around his death were under investigation by local French authorities.
The full statement from DIRCO: The Government of the Republic of South Africa announces with deep sorrow and profound regret the untimely passing of His Excellency Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa, South Africa’s Ambassador to the French Republic.
Ambassador Mthethwa was a distinguished servant of the nation, whose career was marked by dedicated service in critical ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Police and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture.
He also served on the Board of Directors for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee. His lifelong commitment to public duty was further exemplified by his longstanding contribution to the African National Congress through its highest decision-making structures.
In his diplomatic role, to which he was appointed in December 2023, Ambassador Mthethwa was tasked with strengthening the vital partnership and bilateral ties between South Africa and France. “I have no doubt that his passing is not only a national loss but is also felt within the international diplomatic community,” said Minister Lamola.
The circumstances of his untimely death are under investigation by the French authorities. The Government of South Africa extends its deepest and most sincere condolences to the family of Ambassador Mthethwa, and to his friends and colleagues during this period of immense grief. He is survived by his wife and children. We honour his legacy of unwavering patriotism and service to our nation.
