South Africa's Top Diplomat Under Fire for 'Hobnobbing' With Fugitive in India

South Africa's High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, is facing a major diplomatic storm and an urgent call for his recall after he was seen with former President Jacob Zuma and alleged state capture fugitive Ajay Gupta during Zuma's visit to India in late June 2026. This public association with a wanted individual has sparked outrage from within the South African government, with top officials slamming Sooklal's conduct as a 'level of disgrace' and a 'middle finger' to citizens. The incident has severely undermined South Africa's ongoing efforts to bring the Gupta brothers, central figures in the infamous 'State Capture' corruption scandal, back to face justice. Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni and International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola have both condemned Sooklal, accusing him of working against the country's criminal justice system and foreign policy objectives. Veteran political figure Carl Niehaus has amplified calls for Sooklal's immediate recall, arguing that his actions betray the nation's diplomatic integrity and commitment to the rule of law. Former President Jacob Zuma presence with Gupta, especially given his leadership of the Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, further complicates the political landscape. Now, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has launched a full investigation into Sooklal's involvement, with Minister Lamola promising 'drastic steps' if officials are found to have undermined South African law. The government is also reviewing the privileges extended to former presidents, indicating that such benefits could be reconsidered if used to compromise national laws. The outcome of this probe will not only determine Sooklal's future but also send a critical message about South Africa's resolve to fight corruption and uphold its international standing.