Former South African President Jacob Zuma is facing renewed criticism after meeting Ajay Gupta, a central figure in the country’s state-capture scandal, during a trip to India in June. The visit, which included South Africa’s High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, is now under investigation by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation. Officials say Zuma retains certain privileges as a former head of state but does not have the capacity to conduct independent foreign policy. Meanwhile, analysts say the meeting is consistent with Zuma’s long-standing defense of the Gupta family, despite findings from South Africa’s Zondo Commission that detailed how the Guptas siphoned public funds and influenced government appointments. They argue that the public reunion undermines anti-corruption efforts and raises questions about possible financial backing for Zuma’s MK Party ahead of local elections.
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