Dirco clears High Commissioner Sooklal of suspicion of facilitating Zuma-Gupta meetings

Dirco clears High Commissioner Sooklal of suspicion of facilitating Zuma-Gupta meetings
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) announced on Wednesday that its official mission to India did not facilitate any substantive engagement between former President Jacob Zuma and fugitive businessman Ajay Gupta during Zuma's recent private trip.
Following the conclusion of internal consultations with South Africa's High Commissioner to India Ambassador Anil Sooklal, Dirco confirmed that all assistance rendered to Zuma fell strictly within standard protocol, administrative and logistical support, which is routinely extended to former Heads of State.
The department's review follows a private visit by Zuma to India between June 25 and 27.
The Presidency initially informed Dirco of the trip on June 19, requesting customary protocol arrangements.
Dirco reiterated that routine courtesy assistance to former Heads of State does not constitute authorisation to represent the government of South Africa or advance its official interests.
Addressing public concern regarding a religious event attended by both Zuma and Gupta in Haridwar, Dirco clarified that Ambassador Sooklal attended the event independently after receiving a separate invitation from the host organisers.
The High Commissioner did not accompany Zuma or Gupta to the venue.
While Gupta was noted to be present among the roughly 1 000 invited guests, Sooklal reported no direct interaction with him, according to the department.
Dirco's assessment concluded that the Mission's role was strictly confined to ceremonial receptions and the attendance of a public event in an official capacity.
The department emphasised that the Mission did not arrange, facilitate or participate in any private meetings between Zuma and Gupta.
Despite the lack of interaction during the trip, Dirco reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law and accountability.
The department noted that while Gupta is not currently subject to an active extradition request by South Africa, Dirco continues to actively facilitate cooperation between South African and Indian law enforcement authorities regarding mutual legal assistance requests and ongoing legal processes involving the Gupta family.
To avoid future controversies, Dirco has recommended the implementation of a new State mechanism. This framework will ensure that future international travel and engagements by former Presidents are thoroughly assessed for potential reputational, political, diplomatic, or security risks before logistics are approved.