UPDATE | 'A moment of deep grief': Ramaphosa pays tribute to Nathi Mthethwa following 'tragic' death in France
South Africa's ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel "Nathi" Mthethwa, has been found dead in Paris, just a day after he was reported missing.
Image: IOL Graphics
South Africa's ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel "Nathi" Mthethwa, has been found dead in Paris, just a day after he was reported missing.
He was 58-years-old.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation confirmed on Tuesday that Mthethwa died in France.
The circumstances surrounding his death are being investigated by French authorities.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep sorrow following the death of Mthethwa, who died in Paris under tragic circumstances.
The President conveyed his condolences to Mthethwa’s wife, Philisiwe Buthelezi, and the ambassador’s extended family. He also extended sympathies to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) and staff at the South African Embassy in Paris.
Mthethwa was appointed as South Africa’s head of mission to France in December 2023.
Since then, he had built strong diplomatic ties with French leaders and officials, including the French Presidency and the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Before his diplomatic posting, Mthethwa served in the Cabinet for 15 years, holding the portfolios of Police and later Sports, Arts and Culture.
In a statement from the Presidency, Ramaphosa described Mthethwa’s death as “a moment of deep grief” for the nation.
“Ambassador Mthethwa has served our nation in diverse capacities during a lifetime that has ended prematurely and traumatically,” the President said.
Ramaphosa also praised Mthethwa’s efforts in strengthening cooperation between South Africa and France, saying his work had created opportunities for individuals and businesses in both countries.
“In his last tenure of service he facilitated the deepening of relations between South Africa and the Republic of France, which has produced benefits for individuals and businesses in both countries and advanced our cooperation in the global arena,” Ramaphosa said.
The President added: “May his soul rest in peace.”
Mthethwa was appointed South Africa’s ambassador to the French Republic in December 2023.
His diplomatic posting followed a long political career that saw him serve as Minister of Police and later as Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture.
He also served on the board of directors of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee, helping steer one of the country’s most celebrated sporting milestones.
Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola described Mthethwa’s death as a loss “not only to South Africa but also to the international diplomatic community.”
“I have no doubt that his passing is not only a national loss but is also felt within the international diplomatic community,” Lamola said.
Mthethwa was a long-time member of the ANC where he held leadership roles in some of the party’s top decision-making structures.
In a statement, the government extended condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, praising his “unwavering patriotism and service to the nation.”
Mthethwa is survived by his wife and children.
According to French media reports, the 58-year-old diplomat’s body was discovered outside the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile in the Porte Maillot district.
It is alleged that he fell from the 22nd floor of the hotel, though local authorities have not yet confirmed the exact circumstances surrounding his death.
Mthethwa was officially reported missing on Monday evening. His sudden disappearance and subsequent death have prompted both French authorities to launch investigations.