South Africa’s envoy to France reportedly sent a distressing message to his wife before falling to his death from a 22-floor hotel in Paris. Emmanuel Nkosinathi Mthethwa, 58, went missing, leading to a search that ended with his body discovered near the Hyatt Hotel in Porte Maillot. His wife, Philisiwe Buthelezi, raised the alarm after receiving a troubling message from him. Mthethwa had booked a room on the 22nd floor, where the window was found forced open. Details of the message he sent remain undisclosed.
Authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident, with a magistrate visiting the scene. The politician’s phone last pinged near the Bois de Boulogne in Paris at around 3pm on Monday. Despite deploying dogs for the search, his whereabouts could not be determined, leading police to consider the possibility of suicide. Mthethwa had recently attended an event commemorating the Battle of Delville Wood in Longueval, Departement de la Somme.
Having been appointed to the French Embassy in February 2024, Mthethwa also served as South Africa’s representative to UNESCO. Previously, he held ministerial positions in Arts and Culture as well as Sport, Arts, and Culture in the country. His political involvement spanned years as a member of the ANC’s National Executive Committee and National Working Committee.
No official statements have been released by South African or French officials regarding the tragedy. Attempts to reach the South African embassy in Paris were unsuccessful. For those in need of support, The Samaritans offer assistance 24/7 through phone, email, or their website.
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