DIRCO clears Ambassador Sooklal over former President Zuma's India visit, clarifies support provided

Dirco stated that the South African High Commission in New Delhi did not facilitate any substantive engagement between Zuma and Mr. Ajay Gupta during the visit. The assistance provided to Zuma was limited to customary protocol support, including ceremonial lounge arrangements, airport courtesies, liaison with host government authorities, and travel facilitation, in line with established practice for former presidents. Ambassador Sooklal attended a religious event in Haridwar in his official capacity after being independently invited, and Dirco reported no direct interaction between him and Mr. Gupta, who was also present among approximately 1,000 guests.

Dirco emphasized that routine assistance to former Heads of State does not authorize them to represent the government or advance official interests. The department also confirmed that Mr. Gupta is not currently subject to an extradition request by South Africa, but Dirco continues to facilitate cooperation between South African and Indian authorities on legal matters involving the Gupta family. Dirco plans to implement a new system to assess future engagements involving prominent former officials for potential reputational, political, diplomatic, or security risks.