DIRCO clears High Commissioner Sooklal over Zuma’s India visit, says no Gupta meeting was facilitated
DIRCO has cleared High Commissioner to India Anil Sooklal, saying its mission did not facilitate any private meetings between Jacob Zuma and Anil Gupta.
The South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has cleared High Commissioner Anil Sooklal over allegations that former President Jacob Zuma's visit to India in June 2026 facilitated a meeting with controversial businessman Anil Gupta. DIRCO stated that Sooklal had been cleared and resumed his duties in India following an internal consultation.
The department clarified that the assistance provided to Zuma during his visit was part of the established protocol for former presidents, which included ceremonial reception, airport courtesies, and liaison with host government authorities. DIRCO also confirmed that the High Commissioner attended a religious event in Haridwar in his capacity as Head of Mission, but did not accompany Zuma or Gupta, and there were no direct interactions between the High Commissioner and Gupta.
DIRCO emphasized that routine assistance to former heads of state does not authorize them to represent the government or advance official interests.
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