Nathi Mthethwa Dies After Fall From Paris Hotel – What We Know So Far

South Africa is reeling after the sudden death of Nathi Mthethwa, the country’s Ambassador to France and former Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture.

Nathi Mthethwa died at the age of 57 after falling from the 22nd floor of his apartment. In this article we will look at all the known facts of his last hours before death and the details around his death.

He died on September 30, 2025, after falling from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Hotel in Paris. His death shocked both the political world and the public, while French investigators opened a formal inquiry.

The Final Hours: What Happened in Paris?

Mthethwa’s wife raised the alarm when she received a worrying message from him the night before his death. Concerned and unable to reach him, she contacted the police.

Authorities traced his phone to the Bois de Boulogne, a large park in western Paris. Soon afterward, they found his body at the Hyatt Hotel where he was staying.

Investigators also discovered that the secure window in his hotel room had been forced open. While police have not ruled out suicide, they have not confirmed the cause. Moreover, French officials stressed that all possibilities remain on the table.

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Career and Political Background

Nathi Mthethwa played a major role in South African politics for more than two decades. He held several high-profile positions:

Minister of Police (2009–2014) – He managed law enforcement during controversial years, including the Marikana tragedy.
Minister of Arts and Culture (2014–2019) – He oversaw national heritage and cultural development.
Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture (2019–2023) – He led the merged portfolio until President Cyril Ramaphosa dropped him from cabinet in 2023.

After leaving Parliament, he accepted the post of Ambassador to France, where he also served as South Africa’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO. Furthermore, this appointment signaled continued trust in his diplomatic ability despite his political exit.

A Career Shadowed by Criticism

Although Mthethwa made notable contributions, his career also attracted controversy. He faced backlash for mismanaging COVID-19 relief funding through the National Arts Council. In addition, artists accused him of nepotism and poor leadership in key cultural bodies.

Nevertheless, he maintained influence within the ANC and continued to represent South Africa on the international stage. Moreover, his presence in Paris showed how his political career remained significant beyond cabinet roles.

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The Paris Investigation

French authorities continue to piece together his final movements. What we know so far includes:

His wife received a message that alarmed her.
Police tracked his phone to the Bois de Boulogne.
His body was later discovered at the Hyatt Hotel.
The hotel window in his room appeared forced open.

Investigators stressed that the inquiry is ongoing. Furthermore, they have not shared the content of the message he sent to his wife, leaving questions unanswered.

Reaction to His Death

News of Mthethwa’s fall spread quickly in South Africa. Politicians, artists, and colleagues shared tributes, praising his work in arts and culture. Others pointed out the controversies that defined his leadership. Moreover, many South Africans expressed shock at the circumstances, with speculation growing about what led to the fatal fall.

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What Comes Next

The Paris prosecutor’s office continues its investigation, while the South African government prepares to repatriate his body. Moreover, officials are expected to release a formal statement soon. Until then, questions remain about how and why Mthethwa fell from his hotel window.

South Africa has lost a high-profile diplomat and former minister under sudden and tragic circumstances. Furthermore, his death leaves behind a legacy filled with both achievements and controversies.

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