South Africa Awaits Post-Mortem Results and Repatriation of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa
Natalie Nyathi
South Africa is in mourning following the death of its Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, who was found dead in Paris on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. The 58-year-old former minister reportedly fell from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Regency Hotel, prompting an ongoing investigation by French authorities. Post-mortem results are expected by Sunday, and the nation awaits further clarity on the circumstances surrounding his untimely passing.
Initial reports indicate that Mthethwa’s wife contacted authorities on Monday evening after receiving a worrying message from him, in which he apologized and expressed his intention to take his own life. According to the Paris prosecutor, Mthethwa had booked a room on the 22nd floor of the hotel, and the window’s safety mechanism had been forced open. Investigators found no signs of a struggle, nor traces of medication or illegal drugs in the room. French authorities are investigating the possibility of a deliberate act, with no apparent third-party involvement.
South African authorities have urged restraint from speculation, emphasizing the need to allow the French investigation to proceed. Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola stated that the government is providing the necessary support to the Mthethwa family and is awaiting the investigation’s conclusion. He also expressed gratitude for the cooperation of the French authorities in this sensitive matter.
The Mthethwa family, through spokesperson Dr. Sfiso Buthelezi, expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from South Africans and international partners. They acknowledged the government and French authorities for their assistance and transparency during the investigation. The family is working closely with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to repatriate Mthethwa’s remains to South Africa for a memorial and funeral befitting his legacy.
Nathi Mthethwa, born Emmanuel Nkosinathi Mthethwa on January 23, 1967, had a long and distinguished career in South African politics. He held a Diploma in Community Development from the University of Natal, a Certificate in Mining Engineering from the University of Johannesburg, and a Certificate in Communications and Leadership from Rhodes University. Mthethwa served in various high-profile roles within the African National Congress and the South African government. He was a member of Parliament from 2002 to 2023. He also served as a member of the National Executive Committee of the ANC. His cabinet positions included Minister of Safety and Security, Minister of Police, Minister of Arts and Culture, and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture. He was appointed South Africa’s Ambassador to France in December 2023.
As South Africa mourns the loss of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa, the nation awaits the release of the post-mortem results and the completion of the investigation into his death. The repatriation of his body will allow for a proper farewell and a tribute to his contributions to the country. The Mthethwa family has expressed their appreciation for the support they have received during this difficult time, as the country reflects on the life and legacy of a dedicated public servant.
