South Africa’s High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, has not been recalled but has instead been asked to attend a meeting with Zane Dangor, Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), for consultations and clarifications.

The matter concerns his presence at a religious event in Haridwar attended by former President Jacob Zuma and Indian-origin businessman Ajay Gupta.

Diplomatic sources confirmed that Sooklal will meet Dangor to provide clarifications regarding the event. They emphasised that he remains South Africa’s envoy to India and has not been recalled. This clarification followed earlier remarks by Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, who had stated that Sooklal was recalled for further consultations.

Lamola explained that the government is reviewing the framework governing protocol and diplomatic support extended to former presidents and deputy presidents during international travel. He confirmed that recommendations have been submitted to Parliament and the presidency to establish a new framework.

This framework would include mandatory disclosure requirements for former leaders seeking diplomatic assistance, covering details such as the purpose of travel, programs, activities, sources of funding, hosts, key engagements, and the capacity in which they travel.

The minister stressed that such measures are necessary to assess reputational, political, diplomatic, and security risks. He noted that this would prevent situations where former presidents appear to represent South Africa’s foreign policy without authorisation from the sitting head of state.

Sooklal, who is of Indian origin, previously served as South Africa’s G20 sherpa and BRICS sherpa before being appointed High Commissioner to India. The controversy arose after his presence during Zuma’s visit to Haridwar in June, where Zuma met Ajay Gupta at Siddhpeeth Shri Dakshin Kali Mandir. During the visit, Zuma and Sooklal met Niranjani Akhara Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri, who described Gupta as a disciple and member of the ashram family, and a friend of Zuma.

The Gupta family has long been at the centre of South Africa’s “state capture” investigations. Allegations claimed they exploited their close relationship with Zuma to influence government decisions and secure lucrative state contracts.

The brothers fled South Africa in 2018 after a judicial commission began probing widespread corruption and undue influence during Zuma’s presidency.

The incident has reignited debate in South Africa about the role of former leaders in international engagements and the need for stricter oversight. It also highlights the sensitivity surrounding the Gupta family’s legacy and their association with Zuma, which continues to cast a shadow over South Africa’s political and diplomatic landscape.

ANI