(AFP) – A former South African ambassador has been found dead in what Paris prosecutors are investigating as a potential suicide. Nkosinathi Emmanuel Nathi Mthethwa, 58, was discovered in the courtyard of a Hyatt hotel in Paris.
Mthethwa, often referred to as Nati Musetva, had checked into a room on the 22nd floor. Interestingly, the windows there had been forced open using a pair of scissors that were located at the scene.
His wife received a distressing message stating that he “apologized to her and indicated an intention to end his life.” This occurred after their last meeting the previous Monday, when he was expected to attend a cocktail event, according to prosecutor Laure Beccuau.
She mentioned that, “the initial investigation suggests this could have been a deliberate act without third-party involvement,” but noted that authorities are dedicated to uncovering all the details.
Mthethwa had been serving as ambassador since December 2023.
President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his sorrow over the loss, stating that it was “too early” and a time of deep sadness, emphasizing that the government and citizens are supporting the Musetva family.
He described Mthethwa as someone who had dedicated a lifetime to serving the country, mentioning the situation as “his untimely death” and confirming that French authorities are conducting the investigation.
Per his embassy’s website, Mthethwa held various ministerial roles, including Minister of Culture from 2014 to 2019 and Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture starting in 2023. Before that, he was Minister of Police from 2009 to 2014 and served as Minister of Security from 2008 to 2009.
Beyond governmental roles, he was on the board of the 2010 Football World Cup Local Organising Committee. He was also a senior member of the African National Congress (ANC) from 2007 to 2022 and had a history of involvement in the ANC’s military wing during apartheid, even being arrested during the 1989 state of emergency.
