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South Africa has confirmed the untimely death of its Ambassador to the French Republic His Excellency Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has described Mthethwa as a distinguished servant of the nation.
According to the Department, the circumstances of his untimely death are under investigation by the French authorities.
The Mirror Uk reported that the 58 year old Ambassador died in a fall from the 22nd floor of a hotel after going missing. According to the media house, Mthethwa disappeared yesterday, but his body has been found today at the Hyatt Hotel in Paris.
DIRCO, without revealing much surrounding the death of Mthethwa said his career was marked by dedicated service in critical ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Police and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture.
“Nathi’ Mthethwa 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 the Minister for DIRCO Ronald 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,” Continued Lamola.
