The South African French ambassador was found deceased on Tuesday near the Hyatt Regency Hotel, which is a prominent high-rise located to the west of Paris, according to the Paris prosecutor’s office.
Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa had been reported missing by his wife on Monday evening after she received a distressing text message from him, as confirmed by the prosecutor’s office and various media reports.
The prosecutor’s office shared that Mthethwa had reserved a room on the 22nd floor, noting that some windows were forcibly opened.
An investigation into the incident is ongoing, though the prosecutor indicated that results cannot yet be predicted.
According to French media outlets, including Le Parisien, there is speculation that Mthethwa may have taken his own life, but these reports did not cite any sources.
South Africa’s Foreign Ministry acknowledged Mthethwa’s death and mentioned that French authorities are looking into the matter.
“Ambassador Mthethwa was a distinguished servant of our nation, dedicating his career to key governmental portfolios,” the Foreign Ministry remarked, calling his passing “a significant loss to the people.”
On the embassy’s website, it is noted that Mthethwa held the position of Minister of Arts and Culture from 2014 until 2019 and later took on the additional role of Minister of Sports from 2019 to 2023.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or faces a mental health crisis, assistance is available. In New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-Well for free confidential crisis counseling, while those outside the five boroughs may reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988, available 24/7, or visit saidepreventionlifeline.org.
