Former South African police minister and ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, has died. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation confirmed his passing following an apparent fall from a building in Paris on Monday. He had been reported missing the following morning.
International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola described Mthethwa as a distinguished public servant whose career included roles as police minister and as minister of sport, arts and culture. Mthethwa also served on the board of the 2010 FIFA World Cup local organizing committee.
Appointed ambassador in December 2023, Mthethwa was tasked with strengthening bilateral relations between South Africa and France. Lamola said his death is a loss to both the nation and the international diplomatic community.
The circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation by French authorities. French media reported that Mthethwa was last seen around 3pm on Monday near Bois de Boulogne, and that his wife had previously reported him missing. His body was discovered the following morning.
Mthethwa is survived by his wife and children. The South African government extended condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.
