South Africa is mourning the sudden death of its ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, whose body was found near the four-star Hyatt Regency Hotel in Paris. French officials informed the BBC that Mthethwa, aged 58, had been reported missing by his wife on Monday evening after sending a “worrying message.” The Paris prosecutor’s office revealed that Mthethwa had booked a room on the hotel’s 22nd floor, where a security window had been forcibly opened.

The exact circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, prompting French authorities to launch an investigation. A duty magistrate has been dispatched to the scene to oversee further inquiries.

Mthethwa was a prominent figure in South African politics, serving as a high-ranking member of the African National Congress (ANC), the party credited with ending apartheid and bringing Nelson Mandela to power in 1994. Since December 2023, he had represented South Africa as ambassador to Paris. Prior to his diplomatic role, Mthethwa held significant government positions including Police Minister and Arts and Culture Minister.

Known for his close alliance with former President Jacob Zuma, Mthethwa was implicated in South Africa’s state capture inquiry, which investigated allegations of widespread corruption during Zuma’s administration.

In response to the news, South Africa’s Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola described Mthethwa as a “distinguished servant of the nation,” emphasizing that his passing is a loss not only for South Africa but also for the international diplomatic community. Lamola confirmed that French authorities are actively investigating the circumstances of the ambassador’s death.

As the investigation continues, the South African government and global diplomatic circles await further details about this tragic loss.