Nathi Nhleko family rejects suicide claim

The family of South African Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, has firmly rejected reports suggesting he died by suicide after allegedly falling from the 22nd floor of a Paris hotel on 30 September 2025.

Speaking from their home in KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal, relatives described the circumstances surrounding Mthethwa's death as "mysterious" and called for a thorough investigation.

Khulekani Mthethwa, a family spokesperson, emphasized that the ambassador—who endured torture under the apartheid regime—would not have taken his own life to avoid the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, where he had been named by General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. He also questioned the whereabouts of Mthethwa's security detail during the incident.

The family has urged both French authorities and South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances of his death.

French authorities are investigating the death as a suspected suicide. Reports indicate that Mthethwa sent an apologetic message to his wife the night before, allegedly expressing intentions to end his life. However, the hotel room window had been tampered with, and authorities reportedly found no signs of struggle or drug use.

Mthethwa, 58, had a distinguished political career, serving as Minister of Police, Minister of Arts and Culture, and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture. He was appointed South Africa's Ambassador to France in February 2024. His passing has prompted tributes from colleagues and officials, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, who praised his role in strengthening South Africa-France relations.

The family's call for a full investigation underscores the urgent need for clarity and transparency regarding Ambassador Mthethwa's untimely death.