The family of the late South African Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, is demanding clear answers following his tragic death in Paris. Mthethwa, 58, reportedly fell from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Regency Hotel on October 2, 2025, under circumstances that remain under investigation by both French authorities and South African law enforcement.
South Africa’s acting Minister of Police, Professor Firoz Cachalia, confirmed that five senior investigators have been dispatched to France to support the inquiry. The team, led by Major General Maqhashalala, aims to collaborate closely with French investigators to uncover the truth and provide closure for the grieving family.
Speaking from the ambassador’s hometown of Kwambonambi, his brother-in-law Khulekani Buthelezi emphasized the family’s call for transparency and cooperation.
“We would like to thank the government for this initiative, and we understand that the investigative team has traveled to France to collaborate with French investigators. We hope that, with a team of diverse skills, the outcome will be as expected: the truth, nothing more,” Buthelezi said.
He described the emotional toll the tragedy has taken, particularly on Mthethwa’s widow and immediate family. “Family helps a lot, as difficult as it is for my sister, but we just want answers so we can have closure on this chapter,” he added.
According to family spokesperson Sifiso Buthelezi, French police have briefed the family on ongoing developments and returned Mthethwa’s personal belongings. The ambassador’s body is expected to be repatriated to South Africa following an autopsy, pending formal approvals and logistical coordination.
As investigations continue, both governments have pledged full cooperation, ensuring that the circumstances surrounding Ambassador Mthethwa’s death are thoroughly examined and transparently reported.
