Speculation mounts over Former Minister Mthethwa’s death

Political commentator, Goodenough Mashego, says the circumstances around South Africa’s ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa’s death are suspicious and “full of loopholes.”

The sudden and tragic death of the former minister, has raised significant concerns and speculation, with some analysts calling for a deeper investigation.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), on Tuesday, confirmed Mthethwa’s passing, a day after he was reported missing. He was 58.

According to reports, Mthethwa fell from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Hotel in Paris, approximately 3.5 km from his official residence in the Porte Maillot district. French authorities have yet to confirm the exact circumstances of his death, and investigations are ongoing.

Speaking to Ynews, Mashego says he suspects foul play.

Legal and governance analyst, Leo Maphosa, reflected on Mthethwa’s legacy, describing him as “a complex and layered leader.”

“We must be honest about that duality. His tenure was not without controversy, but it was also marked by deep commitment to national identity and cultural life. He embodied the paradox of South African leadership — the ability to inspire and disappoint, sometimes within the same week,” said Maphosa.

Maphosa added that Mthethwa’s death forces the country to confront the cost of leadership.

“Leadership in South Africa comes at a heavy price — the glory of service, the burden of scrutiny, and the inevitability of contested legacies. Nathi Mthethwa’s name will remain part of our nation’s story, not only because of his achievements, but because of the debates he sparked about what leadership should mean,” he added.

DIRCO spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri, said French authorities are working “around the clock” to establish the facts surrounding the incident.

“Ambassador Mthethwa was a distinguished servant of the nation, with a career marked by dedication in critical ministerial portfolios — including Police as well as Sport, Arts and Culture. His lifelong duty to the country was further exemplified by his longstanding contribution to the ANC’s highest decision-making structures,” said Phiri.

The Government of the Republic of South Africa announces with deep sorrow and profound regret the untimely passing of His Excellency Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa, South Africa’s Ambassador to the French Republic.https://t.co/8wZpEvPuzk pic.twitter.com/bKuaD9FHJJ

— DIRCO South Africa (@DIRCO_ZA) September 30, 2025

Mthethwa was recently implicated at the Madlanga Commission, where he was accused of political interference during his tenure as Police Minister.

His name also appeared on the EFF’s list of individuals proposed to be summoned by Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee, which is probing serious allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, of corruption in the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Let’s never forget what General Mkhwanazi said about Nathi Mthethwa a few days ago in the #MadlangaCommission , anyway may he rest in peace 🕊️🕊️🕊️ pic.twitter.com/Kde5I3AVUB

— The Instigator (@Am_Blujay) September 30, 2025

The African National Congress (ANC) has taken to social media to pay its respects to the late ambassador, describing him as a “committed cadre” and “loyal servant of the movement.”

The African National Congress (ANC) is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Comrade Nathi Mthethwa, a stalwart of our movement, former Minister and Ambassador. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and comrades during this difficult time.… pic.twitter.com/GFyb2lptyQ

— ANC SECRETARY GENERAL | Fikile Mbalula (@MbalulaFikile) September 30, 2025

The Presidency has also weighed in, with President Cyril Ramaphosa describing Mthethwa’s death as “a moment of deep grief.”

The untimely passing of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa is a moment of deep grief in which government and citizens stand beside the Mthethwa family.

Ambassador Mthethwa has served our nation in diverse capacities during a lifetime that has ended prematurely and traumatically.

In his… pic.twitter.com/mtk0Hpkn80

— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) September 30, 2025

The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked widespread controversy on social media.

We need to be honest about Nathi Mthethwa death, He was assinated before he could appear on the Madlanga Commission pic.twitter.com/HESm732Olf

— IG:Joy-Zelda (@joy_zelda) September 30, 2025

Is Nathi Mthethwa really dead or they trying to distract us from the Madlanga Commission

pic.twitter.com/J9hZBPtQ0y

— Diet Coke (@Compaqllow) September 30, 2025

The South African Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, has reportedly been found dead after falling from the 22nd floor of a hotel in Paris.

Just over a week ago, Mthethwa was named by KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, in the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

🤔 pic.twitter.com/c0ILM8k7qg

— Conscious Caracal 🇿🇦 (@ConCaracal) September 30, 2025

Written by: Odirile Rabalao