Former South African police minister and current ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, has been found dead in Paris.

According to French newspaper Le Parisien, Mthethwa’s body was discovered at the foot of the Hyatt Hotel, a high-rise tower in Porte Maillot in the west of Paris.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) confirmed his death on Tuesday.

Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa was serving as South Africa’s ambassador to France at the time of his passing. Reports indicate that his wife had earlier filed a missing person’s report after receiving a text message from him that raised concern.

Political Career

Mthethwa held several senior positions in government:

• Minister of Arts and Culture from 2014 to 2019.
• Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture from 2019 to 2023.
• Minister of Safety and Security (renamed Minister of Police) from 2008 to 2014.

He began his political career in the ANC Youth League and later joined the National Assembly in 2002. He was also part of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee’s Board of Directors.

DIRCO’s Response

A DIRCO spokesperson initially said they were “aware of unfortunate reports pertaining to Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa” and would issue a statement once official information was available.

Later, the department released an official statement, confirming his death and describing it as both untimely and a “national loss”. The statement noted that the French authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding his passing.

The Full Statement from DIRCO

The Government of the Republic of South Africa announces with deep sorrow and profound regret the untimely passing of His Excellency Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa, South Africa’s Ambassador to the French Republic.

Ambassador Mthethwa was a distinguished servant of the nation, whose career was marked by dedicated service in critical ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Police and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture.

He also served on the Board of Directors for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee. His lifelong commitment to public duty was further exemplified by his longstanding contribution to the African National Congress through its highest decision-making structures.

In his diplomatic role, to which he was appointed in December 2023, Ambassador Mthethwa was tasked with strengthening the vital partnership and bilateral ties between South Africa and France.

“I have no doubt that his passing is not only a national loss but is also felt within the international diplomatic community,” said Minister Lamola.

The circumstances of his untimely death are under investigation by the French authorities.

The Government of South Africa extends its deepest and most sincere condolences to the family of Ambassador Mthethwa, and to his friends and colleagues during this period of immense grief.

He is survived by his wife and children.

We honour his legacy of unwavering patriotism and service to our nation.