DIRCO clears High Commissioner over Zuma’s India trip

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) says it has found no evidence that South Africa’s High Commission in India facilitated a meeting between former President Jacob Zuma and controversial businessman, Ajay Gupta, during Zuma’s visit to India. 

The department says the visit, which took place between 25 and 27 June, was supported through the “established protocol, administrative and logistical support ordinarily extended to former Presidents”.

This included airport courtesies, ceremonial lounge arrangements and liaison with Indian authorities.

DIRCO also confirmed that the Presidency informed the department about Zuma’s planned private visit and requested assistance with the necessary protocol and logistical arrangements.

The department had previously launched an investigation into the trip after a viral video showing South African High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, alongside Zuma and Gupta at a temple sparked renewed criticism over the former president’s visit and whether unauthorised parallel ties were being established. 

The Gupta brothers’ history in South Africa also fuelled online speculation. Ajay and Atul Gupta left the country in 2018 amid allegations linking them to state capture and corruption during Zuma’s administration. 

Meanwhile, Sooklal, has also been cleared over his attendance at a religious event in Haridwar, where Zuma and Gupta were reportedly present.

DIRCO says Sooklal attended the event after receiving a separate invitation in his capacity as Head of Mission.

Although Gupta was among about 1,000 guests, DIRCO says the High Commissioner reported having no direct interaction with him.

“The information available indicates that the Mission did not arrange, facilitate or participate in any private meetings involving former President Zuma and Mr. Gupta,” DIRCO said.

The department stressed that routine assistance provided to former heads of state does not give them authority to represent the South African government or advance official interests.

DIRCO says it remains committed to the rule of law and accountability and is now considering recommending a new mechanism to assess future engagements involving former leaders for potential “reputational, political, diplomatic or security risks”.

Outcome of Consultations with SA High Commissioner to India on Haridwar Event

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has completed its internal consultations with South Africa’s High Commissioner to India. https://t.co/n7IQzXHVhO

— Chrispin Phiri 🇿🇦 (@Chrispin_JPhiri) September 2, 2026

The findings have since sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some users welcoming DIRCO’s explanation while others remain sceptical about the circumstances surrounding Zuma’s visit.

So how did he meet the Guptas if Sooklal didn’t help him? This then a mystery.

— nezisa nkwali (@NkwaliNezisa) September 2, 2026

Vele what was the farce all about ☺️?? The da and their puppets are very scared and obsessed with the Guptas and president Zuma! I don’t see this making the headlines on our three absa news channels ☺️ pic.twitter.com/NMWIggYCQw

— Bonginkosi (@dubula35480711) September 2, 2026