Diplomatic Misstep Cleared: High Commissioner Sooklal Exonerated Over Zuma-Gupta Encounter

The South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has officially exonerated Anil Sooklal, South Africa’s high commissioner to India, from any wrongdoing linked to his attendance at a religious event with former President Jacob Zuma and Ajay Gupta. This conclusion comes after a thorough internal review following public outcry over the incident.

On June 26, 2023, Sooklal was seen alongside Zuma and Gupta at a prayer meeting led by Swami Kailashanand Giri at the Siddhpeeth Shri Dakshin Kali Temple in Haridwar. The images of their gathering sparked significant embarrassment for the South African government, leading to Sooklal's recall for consultations. However, after assessing the situation, Dirco has clarified that Sooklal's role was limited to ceremonial duties and that he had been independently invited to the event.

Dirco stated that it did not arrange or facilitate any private meetings between Zuma and Gupta, emphasizing that routine assistance to former heads of state does not equate to authorizing them to represent South Africa or advance its interests. The department also highlighted that it had received prior notification regarding Zuma’s visit to India, which was intended to ensure proper protocol and logistical support.

Despite being present at the same event, Sooklal reported no direct interaction with Gupta, who was among approximately 1,000 guests. The government reiterated its commitment to upholding constitutional values and expressed its ongoing cooperation with Indian authorities regarding legal matters involving the Gupta family.

In light of this incident, Dirco proposed a new mechanism to assess potential reputational and diplomatic risks associated with similar engagements in the future. This includes measures to avoid another embarrassment such as Zuma's previous visit to Uganda, where he met with President Yoweri Museveni to discuss business cooperation.

The Democratic Alliance's Ryan Smith criticized the discrepancies between Dirco's findings and the statements from the Presidency, indicating a troubling communication gap within the South African government. He pointed out that the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, publicly criticized Sooklal without being aware of the preparations made for Zuma’s arrival.

Smith further questioned the rationale behind providing diplomatic support to Zuma, who has faced serious allegations, including contempt of court and corruption. He raised concerns about whether taxpayers should be funding the travel of a former leader embroiled in controversies that challenge the integrity of South Africa’s democratic framework.

Source: www.dailymaverick.co.za