Former Minister Nathi Mthethwa Reportedly Dies In Paris Hotel Fall

Nathi Mthethwa, South Africa’s Ambassador to France and former Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, has reportedly died at the age of 58. French media reports claim he fell from the 22nd floor of a hotel in Paris.

According to Le Parisien, French police began searching for Mthethwa on Monday afternoon after he went missing. He was last tracked around 3PM near the Bois de Boulogne in the city’s 16th arrondissement. His body was later discovered at the Hyatt Hotel.

Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of suicide. Search teams, including dog units, had earlier been deployed to comb through the wooded area in western Paris.

Missing Report Filed by Mthethwa’s Wife

Reports indicate that Mthethwa’s disappearance was first flagged by his wife. She informed authorities that she had received a concerning message from him on Monday evening.

The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed that a search operation was launched due to concerns for his safety. The operation ended after his body was found at the hotel.

DIRCO Yet to Confirm Nathi Mthethwa Death Reports

Despite the media reports, South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has not confirmed Mthethwa’s death. In its advisory, DIRCO urged the public to await an official statement before drawing conclusions.

Le Parisien reported that Mthethwa was last seen on September 29, 2025, with his phone activity recorded near the Bois de Boulogne. The Paris police are said to be investigating, though no official ruling has been made regarding the cause of death.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: WhatsApp Messages Link Alleged Cartel Member Matlala To ANC Payments, Commission Hears

Mthethwa previously served as a cabinet minister from 2008 until 2023 before being appointed South Africa’s Ambassador to France in early 2024. He presented his diplomatic credentials on February 29, 2024.

---

For More, Follow SurgeZirc SA On  Facebook, X,  Instagram and Bluesky