South Africa recalls envoy over presence at event with one of the Gupta brothers

South Africa has recalled its high commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, following his presence at an event with Ajay Gupta, one of the Gupta brothers, who are under scrutiny for alleged political corruption. The recall came after photographs surfaced of Zuma, the former president, with the Guptas and Sooklal at a ceremony in Haridwar, India on June 26.

Sooklal was quoted by the Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola during a press briefing, confirming the recall for further consultations. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has proposed a new protocol for diplomatic support for foreign visits by former presidents. Sooklal, who has been with the foreign ministry since 1995, has served in various capacities including G20 sherpa and ambassador to the European Union and Belgium.

The Gupta brothers, who were born in India, have been accused of leveraging their connections with Zuma to secure contracts, influence cabinet appointments, and misappropriate state funds. Zuma and the Guptas have both denied these allegations. A judicial inquiry concluded that there was sufficient evidence to recommend criminal charges against the Guptas.

While Ajay Gupta remains in India, his brothers reside in the UAE, where a court dismissed South Africa's extradition request in 2023 due to technicalities. The Democratic Alliance, a prominent South African political party, has called for an investigation into what it views as a breach of diplomatic protocol, suggesting the foreign service may be politically influenced.

During his visit to India, Zuma defended his encounter with Ajay Gupta, stating that the Gupta brother was a friend and a brother to him, despite their past disagreements.