South Africa recalls envoy over presence at event with one of the Gupta brothers
South Africa Recalls Envoy Over Gupta Brother Event Attendance
Bharatmorningnews.com – South Africa recalls envoy over diplomatic protocol concerns after high commissioner Anil Sooklal was photographed attending a gathering with former president Jacob Zuma and Ajay Gupta. The incident has prompted the government to review its foreign service guidelines for official engagements abroad. This development marks a significant moment in South African diplomatic relations as the country seeks to strengthen institutional frameworks following years of political scrutiny.
Diplomatic Incident Sparks Review
Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola announced the recall decision following the publication of photographs showing the three figures together at a Hindu temple ceremony in Haridwar on June 26. The images captured Zuma, Sooklal, and Gupta participating in religious rituals during the former president’s personal visit to India. While the exact nature of Sooklal’s role at the event remains under review, officials confirmed that the high commissioner has been summoned back to Pretoria for consultations regarding the circumstances of his attendance.
We confirm that high commissioner Anil Sooklal has been recalled to the headquarters for further consultations.
Lamola provided this statement during a press briefing in the capital on Wednesday. The foreign minister indicated that the Department of International Relations and Cooperation is considering new protocols to govern how former South African leaders conduct official business while traveling internationally. These measures aim to prevent similar incidents and ensure proper diplomatic representation during such engagements.
Background and Political Context
Sooklal brings extensive experience to his diplomatic role, having joined the foreign ministry in 1995. Over his career, he has served as South Africa’s longest-running Brics sherpa and held ambassadorial positions in Brussels and Belgium between 2006 and 2012. His contributions to international relations earned him the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award in 2019. The diplomat was appointed to his current position in June 2024, making him one of the newer high commissioners in South Africa’s diplomatic corps.
The Gupta brothers have remained central figures in South African political discourse since their departure from the country. During Zuma’s presidency from 2009 to 2018, allegations emerged that the brothers used their influence to secure lucrative government contracts and shape cabinet appointments. A Truth and Reconciliation-style commission later recommended criminal charges against the family members, though all parties have denied wrongdoing.
Following Zuma’s departure from office, the India-born siblings relocated abroad. Ajay Gupta established residence in India, while Atul and Rajesh Gupta moved to the United Arab Emirates. South Africa’s extradition efforts for the UAE-based brothers faced setbacks when a local court dismissed the request in 2023 on procedural grounds.
Political opposition has seized upon this diplomatic incident as evidence of ongoing influence within South Africa’s foreign service. The Democratic Alliance, serving as the country’s second-largest party and coalition partner, has demanded a comprehensive departmental investigation. Party representatives described the situation as a potential breach of diplomatic standards that could undermine South Africa’s international credibility.
Looking Ahead
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has already begun internal proceedings to examine Sooklal’s participation in the Haridwar gathering. Officials have requested detailed explanations from the high commissioner and plan to address findings during upcoming ministerial discussions. Meanwhile, Zuma has maintained his friendship with the Gupta family, telling Indian journalists that Ajay Gupta remains “a brother and friend” who was unfairly compelled to leave South Africa.
This situation highlights the complex relationship between South Africa’s diplomatic institutions and its political leadership. As the investigation continues, stakeholders are watching closely to see how the government balances diplomatic protocol with political realities. The outcome may influence future approaches to managing international engagements involving former leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Anil Sooklal recalled from India? Sooklal was recalled after being photographed attending a temple ceremony in Haridwar with former president Jacob Zuma and Ajay Gupta, raising questions about diplomatic protocol for official engagements abroad.
What is the Gupta family’s connection to South African politics? The Gupta brothers gained significant influence during Jacob Zuma’s presidency (2009-2018), facing allegations of securing government contracts and influencing cabinet appointments through their relationship with the former leader.
Where do the Gupta brothers currently live? Ajay Gupta resides in India, while Atul and Rajesh Gupta live in the United Arab Emirates, where a court rejected South Africa’s extradition request in 2023.
What actions is the South African government taking? The Department of International Relations and Cooperation is conducting an internal investigation and considering new protocols for former presidents’ foreign trips to prevent similar incidents.