JOHANNESBURG, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa, South African ambassador to France, has reportedly died in France, South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation confirmed on Tuesday.
The ambassador, 58, widely known as Nathi Mthethwa, went missing on Monday before allegedly jumping from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Hotel in Paris, according to French media.
In a statement, the department described him as a distinguished public servant who had held various Cabinet portfolios, including minister of police and minister of arts and culture. He was expected to strengthen relations between South Africa and France when he was appointed as the ambassador to France in December 2023. He also played a major role in South Africa's successful hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
South African International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola said in the statement that Mthethwa's death was a huge loss. "I have no doubt that his passing is not only a national loss but is also felt within the international diplomatic community," said Lamola.
"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. We honour his legacy of unwavering patriotism and service to our nation," the statement said.
According to French media, Mthethwa's wife had reported him missing on Monday afternoon after becoming concerned about a troubling message he had sent. The circumstances surrounding his passing are being investigated in France. ■
