• South Africa's ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Mthethwa, was found dead outside a hotel in Paris.
• His wife reported him missing after receiving a worrying message prior to his death.
• Authorities confirmed he had booked a room on the 22nd floor and there were signs indicating a possible suicide.
• Investigations are ongoing as French authorities probe the circumstances surrounding the incident.
• Mthethwa was a well-known figure in South Africa’s political landscape with a significant history in government.

South Africa’s ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa, was discovered dead outside the Hyatt Regency hotel in Paris on Tuesday, September 30. After being reported missing by his wife following a worrying message, the ambassador was confirmed dead at the foot of the hotel, where he had been staying on the 22nd floor. Investigators found the room’s secured window had been forced open, suggesting a possible suicide, according to the Paris prosecutor’s office, reported by aa and trtglobal.

Reports indicate Mthethwa sent a message to his wife prior to his disappearance, alarmingly apologizing and expressing suicidal intent. His wife alerted authorities, leading to a search for the 58-year-old diplomat, as stated by Reuters and CBS News.

The embassy and South African authorities recognized Mthethwa's service, describing his death as a significant loss to both nations. He held a notable career within the African National Congress, serving in various ministerial roles including police and arts and culture minister, as noted by Le Monde and South China Morning Post.

His death reportedly occurred amid ongoing investigations into allegations of corruption linked to his past roles in the South African government, as highlighted by Le Monde and Los Angeles Times.