Former South African Police Minister and current Ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, has tragically died after falling from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Paris. He was 58 years old.
Authorities in France have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. According to reports, Mthethwa’s wife reported him missing after receiving a concerning message from him the previous evening. Investigators later traced his phone and discovered his body near the hotel. Initial findings indicate that the window in his hotel room had been forcibly opened, though no foul play is currently suspected.
Mthethwa was a prominent figure in South African politics, having served as Minister of Police from 2009 to 2014. He later held positions as Minister of Arts and Culture and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture. In early 2024, he was appointed Ambassador to France and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO.
Throughout his political career, Mthethwa was involved in several high-profile controversies, including the Marikana massacre and allegations of political interference in the criminal justice system.
The South African government has expressed profound sorrow over his passing, while French authorities continue to investigate the incident to determine the full circumstances of this tragic event.
