South Africa has been plunged into mourning following the tragic death of its Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa. The former Minister of Arts and Culture, who was discovered dead outside the Hyatt Regency hotel in Paris earlier this week, reportedly left a message to his wife in which he expressed an intention to end his life.
According to Reuters, the Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed that Mthethwa’s wife had reported him missing on Monday evening after receiving a deeply troubling message. In it, Mthethwa apologised to his family and signalled his intention to take his own life. Hours later, his body was found at the foot of the hotel building.
Circumstances Surrounding His Death
Investigators revealed that Mthethwa had booked a room on the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Regency. In his room, police discovered scissors that had been used to force open the window’s safety mechanism. Authorities have so far ruled out foul play, as there were no signs of a struggle, nor were any traces of medication or narcotics detected at the scene.
The Paris prosecutor’s office has indicated that investigations are continuing, but all preliminary evidence points to suicide. French authorities are expected to release a final report once forensic and procedural investigations are complete.
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Government Response and Repatriation Plans
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, confirmed that the government is working closely with French authorities to ensure due process is followed. He emphasised that repatriation of Mthethwa’s remains will only take place once the French police conclude their investigation.
“Once there is clarity from the French police, the family and the South African mission will begin the process of repatriating his body,” Lamola explained. “The family will then decide on the funeral arrangements in consultation with the government, and official announcements will be made in due course.”
He added that French officials have been fully cooperative, and that government will respect the wishes of the Mthethwa family during this painful time.
Tributes from Leaders and Colleagues
News of Mthethwa’s passing has drawn an outpouring of condolences from across the political spectrum. President Cyril Ramaphosa described his death as “a moment of deep grief for the nation,” praising him for his service both as a Cabinet Minister and as a diplomat representing South Africa abroad.
United Democratic Movement (UDM) leader Bantu Holomisa also extended heartfelt condolences to the Mthethwa family. He recalled the ambassador’s support during a UDM delegation visit to France earlier this year, describing him as a patriot committed to strengthening South Africa’s diplomatic presence in Europe. “Ambassador Mthethwa’s legacy as a dedicated public servant and diplomat will be long remembered,” Holomisa said.
Former Minister of Home Affairs Malusi Gigaba also expressed his shock at the news, noting that Mthethwa had devoted decades of his life to advancing the cultural and diplomatic standing of South Africa.
A Career in Service
Nathi Mthethwa’s political career spanned several decades. He previously served as Minister of Police before becoming Minister of Arts and Culture, where he played a key role in policy-making and promoting South Africa’s cultural identity. More recently, he had taken up the post of Ambassador to France, a position he held until his untimely passing.
A Nation in Mourning
As investigations continue in Paris, South Africa is left grappling with the loss of a senior statesman whose contributions touched multiple facets of public life. For his family, friends, and colleagues, Mthethwa’s death is a painful reminder of the silent battles individuals may face behind closed doors.
His passing has opened a national conversation not only about his legacy but also about the importance of mental health support for leaders and public servants who often shoulder immense responsibilities.
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