South Africa's ambassador to France was found dead on Tuesday morning in western Paris, a French prosecutor said.
Emmanuel Nkosinathi Mthethwa, known as Nathi Mthethwa, had been reported missing on Monday evening, after his wife said she received a worrying message from him “in which he apologised and expressed his intention to take his own life,” Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said in a statement.
On Tuesday morning, a security guard at the Hyatt hotel discovered Mthethwa's body, Beccuau said.
An investigation has been opened by French authorities.
The prosecutor said that investigators found no signs of a struggle or traces of medication or narcotics in Mthethwa's hotel room.
Initial investigations suggest that this may have been a deliberate act, without third-party intervention, it added.
South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his sadness at the death of Mthethwa “in tragic circumstances”.
In a statement released by his office, Ramaphosa offered his deep condolences to Mthethwa’s wife and family.
South Africa's foreign ministry said Mthethwa had been appointed ambassador to France in December 2023, tasked with strengthening bilateral ties.
Mthethwa previously served as minister of police and minister of sports, arts and culture.
"Ambassador Mthethwa was a distinguished servant of the nation, whose career was marked by dedicated service in critical ministerial portfolios," the foreign affairs department said in a statement, calling his death "a national loss".
If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch
If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you
European leaders gather to discuss security and Ukraine war following drone incidents
Ukraine war live: Nuclear plant in ‘emergency situation’ says Zelensky after shelling
Israeli strikes in Gaza kill at least 16 as the world awaits Hamas' response to Trump's peace plan
Police shut down Munich Oktoberfest after deadly explosion and bomb threat
Ibiza and Formentera hit by widespread floods as alert issued for ‘dangerous rain’
Europe’s stance on Israel shifts as pro-Gaza protests sweep the continent
