Shock has gripped South Africa’s diplomatic circles after its ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa, was found dead in Paris on Tuesday. The 58-year-old diplomat’s body was discovered outside the Hyatt Hotel in central Paris, a day after he was reported missing. French prosecutors have since opened an inquiry to uncover the circumstances of his sudden death.
Local media in France suggested that Mthethwa may have fallen from the 22nd floor of the hotel, but prosecutors have been cautious, insisting that investigations are still underway. For now, officials have only confirmed that a probe has been launched to establish the exact cause of death.
Back home in Pretoria, the South African government expressed shock, describing the news as devastating. In a statement, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) promised full cooperation with French investigators. The ministry also assured that further details would be made public as the inquiry progresses.
Tributes have already started pouring in, especially from South Africans living in France, who took to social media to share condolences. Colleagues in Pretoria said the ambassador had official engagements lined up later this week, making the news even harder to process.
The posting to France is one of South Africa’s most strategic diplomatic assignments, covering not just Paris but also international organisations based there. As ambassador, Mthethwa played a vital role in protecting citizens abroad and strengthening Pretoria’s global ties. His death, therefore, leaves a heavy gap in South Africa’s foreign mission.
For now, French prosecutors are focusing on piecing together Mthethwa’s final hours, reviewing his disappearance on Monday and the events that followed. Questions remain about whether CCTV footage or eyewitness accounts will provide clarity. Both South African and French authorities have called for patience while investigations continue.
Meanwhile, Pretoria has pledged support to Mthethwa’s family and the embassy staff in Paris, ensuring that diplomatic operations will not be disrupted as the inquiry unfolds.
