South Africa’s ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, was found dead on Tuesday at the foot of the Hyatt Regency hotel in western Paris, according to the Paris prosecutor’s office. The discovery has shocked South African diplomatic circles and raised questions about the circumstances surrounding his death.
Mthethwa, a seasoned diplomat and political figure, had been reported missing by his wife on Monday evening after she received a troubling text message from him. Authorities later confirmed that his body was discovered near the high-rise tower that houses the luxury Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile, one of the city’s most recognizable hotels.
French prosecutors have not yet disclosed the cause of death, but an investigation has been opened. Early reports in local newspapers suggested possible distress prior to his disappearance, but officials have refrained from drawing conclusions while inquiries are ongoing.
The South African embassy in Paris and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in Pretoria both expressed deep sorrow at the news, noting that Mthethwa had been actively engaged in strengthening bilateral relations between South Africa and France. Colleagues described him as a committed public servant with decades of experience in diplomacy and governance.
Mthethwa’s death marks a tragic turn in a career that saw him hold various senior positions in South Africa before being appointed ambassador. His sudden passing has drawn condolences from both French officials and South African leaders, who praised his contribution to international relations and his dedication to promoting South Africa’s interests abroad.
As investigations continue in Paris, both French and South African authorities are expected to work closely to determine the circumstances of his death. Funeral arrangements and the repatriation of his remains are expected to be coordinated in the coming days.
The loss of Ambassador Mthethwa leaves a significant void in South Africa’s diplomatic corps at a time when the nation continues to strengthen its global partnerships. His passing has not only saddened the South African community in France but has also reverberated back home, where he was widely respected for his service to the country.
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