B R Hlambela 
Image credit to SABC News
Emmanuel Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa, South Africa’s Ambassador to France, was found dead on 30 September 2025 in Paris.
His body was discovered at the foot of the luxury Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile hotel, reportedly after a fall from the 22nd floor.
The previous evening, his wife reportedly received a message from him apologizing and indicating suicidal intent.
The French authorities have launched a formal investigation the death is currently being treated as a possible suicide, though all hypotheses remain under review.
Mthethwa’s body is expected to be repatriated to South Africa after formal processes are completed.
Image credit to SABC News
Mthethwa was born on 23 January 1967.
He became involved in the anti-apartheid struggle, and later transitioned into public service roles under the post 1994 government.
He became a Member of Parliament in 2002.
In 2008, he held a senior party role as ANC Chief Whip before moving into executive office.
He served as police minister or in the equivalent safety/security portfolios between 2009 and 2014.
Minister of Arts & Culture from 2014 to 2019.
During his time in these roles, he was involved in numerous high profile policy debates and controversies, including those related to cultural institutions and public funding.
Diplomatic role in December 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Mthethwa as Ambassador to France, also serving as South Africa’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO.
In that capacity, he aimed to strengthen South Africa and France relations and international cooperation.
Family rejects suicide hypothesis Mthethwa’s family has publicly rejected the notion that he would have taken his own life.
They argue that he had endured torture during the apartheid era and had shown resilience, and thus would not evade scrutiny or accountability via suicide.
The family has demanded a full, transparent inquiry involving French and South African authorities.
They also question why he lacked security detail during his time in Paris.
The Presidency, and multiple parties extended condolences and honoured Mthethwa’s service as public servant and diplomat.
Political commentators and civil society are demanding transparency and an accountable investigation, especially given the high stakes tied to the ongoing corruption and interference inquiries.
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