South Africa’s high commissioner to India, Professor Anil Sooklal, has come under pressure after appearing publicly with former President Jacob Zuma and Ajay Gupta, a member of the controversial Gupta family, in India. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) in Pretoria has reportedly summoned Sooklal for clarification following the incident, which has raised concerns about diplomatic conduct.
Sooklal stated that his appearance with Zuma and Gupta was purely incidental and not part of any official diplomatic engagement. The meeting took place during a public event in India, where Zuma and Gupta were present as guests. Sooklal’s involvement has sparked questions about the appropriateness of his association with figures linked to past political controversies.
Dirco officials have yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but the incident highlights ongoing scrutiny of diplomatic interactions involving high-profile individuals. The Gupta family, known for their close ties to former President Zuma, has been the subject of numerous legal and political investigations in South Africa.
The situation underscores the delicate balance between diplomatic engagement and political sensitivity in international relations. (sundayworld.co.za)
