South Africa’s ambassador to France was found dead on Tuesday morning in western Paris, a French prosecutor said.
Emmanuel Nkosinathi Mthethwa, known as Nathi Mthethwa, had been reported missing on Monday evening, after his wife said she received a worrying message from him “in which he apologised and expressed his intention to take his own life,” Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said in a statement.
On Tuesday morning, a security guard at the Hyatt hotel discovered Mthethwa’s body, Beccuau said.
An investigation has been opened by French authorities.
The prosecutor said that investigators found no signs of a struggle or traces of medication or narcotics in Mthethwa’s hotel room.
Initial investigations suggest that this may have been a deliberate act, without third-party intervention, it added.
South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his sadness at the death of Mthethwa “in tragic circumstances”.
In a statement released by his office, Ramaphosa offered his deep condolences to Mthethwa’s wife and family.
South Africa’s foreign ministry said Mthethwa had been appointed ambassador to France in December 2023, tasked with strengthening bilateral ties.
Mthethwa previously served as minister of police and minister of sports, arts and culture.
“Ambassador Mthethwa was a distinguished servant of the nation, whose career was marked by dedicated service in critical ministerial portfolios,” the foreign affairs department said in a statement, calling his death “a national loss”.
If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch
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