Nathi Mthethwa, 58, South African Ambassador, Dies in Paris Hotel Fall

South Africa’s ambassador to France, Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa, has died. He was 58 years old. The senior diplomat was found dead in Paris. Reports indicate he fell from the 22nd floor of a hotel.

The tragic incident occurred at the Hyatt Hotel in the French capital. According to the Paris prosecutor’s office, his wife had reported him missing. She had received a worrying message from him earlier.

Investigation into Ambassador Mthethwa’s Death Underway

Police were alerted after the ambassador was reported missing. A significant search operation was launched. Canine units searched the Bois de Boulogne, a large park in western Paris. This was the last known location for his phone signal.

Authorities later discovered his body at the hotel. The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed details of the discovery. They stated he had booked a room on the 22nd floor. Investigators found that a secure window in the room had been forced open. The circumstances are now the subject of an ongoing investigation.

A Distinguished Career in Public Service

Nathi Mthethwa had a long and distinguished career in South African politics and diplomacy. He was appointed as South Africa’s ambassador to France in February 2024. Prior to this role, he served as the country’s permanent representative to UNESCO.

His political career was extensive and influential. He served as South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture from 2019 to 2023. Before that, he was the Minister of Arts and Culture from 2014. Mthethwa was also a key figure within the African National Congress (ANC). He served on the party’s National Executive Committee for 15 years.

The sudden death of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa represents a significant loss for South Africa’s diplomatic corps. His long career of public service has left a notable mark on the nation’s cultural and political landscape.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was Nathi Mthethwa?

Nkosinathi Mthethwa was a South African politician and diplomat. He most recently served as the South African ambassador to France. Before that, he held several ministerial positions.

How did Nathi Mthethwa die?

He died after a fall from the 22nd floor of a Paris hotel. The Paris prosecutor’s office is investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. The incident was reported after he was initially missing.

What was his role in the ANC?

Mthethwa was a member of the ANC’s National Executive Committee from 2007 to 2022. This body is the party’s highest decision-making forum between conferences. He was a senior and long-standing member of the party.

When did he become ambassador to France?

He was appointed as the South African ambassador to France in February 2024. His diplomatic posting was a relatively recent assignment. He had previously been the permanent representative to UNESCO.

What ministries did he lead?

He served as the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture. Before that portfolio, he was the Minister of Arts and Culture. His political career focused significantly on the cultural sector.