How South Africa confirms the tragic passing of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa
The former South African minister and current ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, has sadly passed away in Paris. Mr Mthethwa, who previously served as the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, was reportedly discovered near the Hyatt Regency hotel in the western area of the French capital. The South African government has confirmed his death, with President Cyril Ramaphosa offering his condolences, though the official cause of death is currently under investigation.
Key details about the passing of Nathi Mthethwa
- Individual: Nathi Mthethwa.
- Past Position: Former Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture (South Africa).
- Current Position at Time of Death: South African Ambassador to France.
- Location of Death: Paris, France.
- Specific Location Finding: Reports indicate he was found at the foot of the Hyatt Regency hotel, located in the western part of the French capital.
- Date of Report/Confirmation: The news was reported on or around September 30, 2025.
- Official Confirmation: Confirmed by the South African government.
- Official Reaction: President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed “deep sorrow” and conveyed condolences to the family.
- Investigation Status: The specific cause of Mr Mthethwa’s death remains under official investigation.
Detailed summary of the event
The South African political and diplomatic community is mourning the loss of Nathi Mthethwa, who served the nation in various capacities, most recently as the country’s Ambassador to France. His death occurred in Paris, the city where he was stationed, and was confirmed by the South African government on or around September 30, 2025.
Before taking on his diplomatic role, Mr Mthethwa was a prominent figure in South African politics, notably holding the portfolio of Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture. International media reports, as noted by the Limpopo Chronicle, indicate that the body of the former minister was discovered at the base of the Hyatt Regency hotel, located in the western district of the city. While the news of his passing has been officially verified, authorities are yet to release details regarding the circumstances leading to his death, confirming that the cause is under active investigation.
President Cyril Ramaphosa issued a statement expressing profound sadness upon hearing the news, extending the nation’s deepest sympathies to the Mthethwa family during this difficult time. This tragedy marks a significant loss for the nation’s current diplomatic efforts.
Questions the community may have
- Who was Nathi Mthethwa? He was a senior South African politician and diplomat. He previously served as the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture and was, at the time of his death, the South African Ambassador to France.
- Where exactly did this tragic event happen? Mr Mthethwa passed away in Paris, France. Reports specifically mention he was found near the Hyatt Regency hotel in the western part of the city.
- Has the South African government confirmed his passing? Yes, the South African government has officially confirmed his death, and President Cyril Ramaphosa has publicly offered his condolences.
- What was the cause of his death? As of the report date, the cause of death is not public knowledge and remains under investigation by French and South African authorities.
- What position did Mr Mthethwa hold just before he became the Ambassador to France? He was the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture for South Africa.
- Will there be a state funeral or special honour for the former minister? While specific details about funeral arrangements are not yet public, given his high-ranking roles as a former Minister and sitting Ambassador, the government is expected to arrange a dignified or official memorial service when his body is repatriated.
- Where can I find more news updates on South African political events? You can always look for more local and national news stories, including those covering official political announcements, on platforms like the City of Thohoyandou News section.
