Paris – French authorities have opened an investigation into the death of South Africa’s ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, whose body was discovered at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Paris on Monday.
Mthethwa, aged 58, was reported missing by his wife after she received a disturbing text message from him. According to Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau, the diplomat had booked a room on the 22nd floor of the hotel on the western edge of the city. His body was later found in the courtyard by a security guard shortly after 11am.
Beccuau confirmed that a pair of scissors had been used to force open the room’s window but investigators found no signs of a struggle or the use of drugs or medication. She added that while preliminary evidence suggested no third-party involvement, the investigation seeks to establish the full circumstances of the death.
Mthethwa, who was appointed ambassador to France last year, had previously served in several ministerial roles, including police, arts and culture, and sport.
President Cyril Ramaphosa paid tribute to him, calling his passing “a moment of deep grief” and praising his role in strengthening ties between South Africa and France. International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola also described the death as a national loss.
The late ambassador’s career has not been without controversy. He was recently implicated before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, where senior police officials accused him of interfering in intelligence matters during his time as minister of police. He was also listed as a potential witness before Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating allegations of misconduct and collusion within the police service.
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