Image Source: Jacaranda FM
World – Findings into the death of South Africa’s Ambassador to France, Emmanuel Mthethwa, suggest that “it may have been a deliberate act without third-party involvement,” according to Paris’ public prosecutor, Laure Beccuau.
The ambassador was found dead on 30 September 2025 at the Hyatt hotel in the 17th arrondissement of Paris.
His death has triggered a police investigation into the exact circumstances, with French authorities careful to stress that the inquiry remains ongoing.
The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed that the case has been assigned to the 1st Judicial Police District. While the evidence points towards an apparent suicide, officials emphasised that the investigation aims to gather all details that may shed light on his final hours.
Mthethwa’s wife reported him missing on 29 September after he failed to return home.
“She indicated having seen her husband for the last time shortly before 16h30 when he was due to attend a cocktail, then having received a message from him shortly after 21h30, in which he apologised and expressed his intention to end his life,” Beccuau said.
The following morning, at about 11h10, a hotel security guard discovered Mthethwa’s body in the inner courtyard.
Investigators later established that the ambassador had reserved a room at the Hyatt around ten days earlier and had checked in immediately after leaving his Paris residence. The room was located on the 22nd floor.
Inspectors found that the safety mechanism on the window had been forcibly opened.
“The safety lock mechanism of the window had been forced with scissors, which were left at the scene,” Beccuau explained.
No signs of foul play were identified, and police reported no traces of drugs or medication in the room. The prosecutor reiterated that the purpose of the investigation was to establish a complete understanding of the incident.
Presidential Tribute
News of Mthethwa’s death was met with shock in South Africa, where he was widely known for his years of public service. President Cyril Ramaphosa led tributes to the diplomat, calling his passing a national loss.
“The untimely passing of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa is a moment of deep grief in which Government and citizens stand beside the Mthethwa family,” the President said.
“Ambassador Mthethwa has served our nation in diverse capacities during a lifetime that has ended prematurely and traumatically. … May his soul rest in peace,” He added.
