The South African government has strongly criticised former President Jacob Zuma following his recent meeting in India with Ajay Gupta, one of the brothers at the centre of major corruption scandals during Zuma’s presidency.
In a video and photos shared on social media, the 84-year-old Zuma was seen with Ajay Gupta at a Hindu temple in Haridwar. Zuma referred to Gupta as his “brother and friend” and hinted at plans to run for office again, stating he aims to “retake the country forward.”
Cabinet minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni described the meeting as deeply disturbing, saying Zuma was “openly and unapologetically” showing a “middle finger” to South Africans who suffered financial losses due to the Guptas’ alleged activities.
She called it a “disgrace” and noted that Zuma continues to defy public sentiment while expressing ambitions to lead the country once more.
The government has launched an inquiry into the visit. Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola accused Zuma of conducting a “parallel foreign policy.” Officials also criticised South Africa’s high commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, for accompanying Zuma to the meeting.
Background on the Gupta ScandalThe Gupta brothers, Ajay, Atul, and Rajesh built a vast business empire in South Africa but fled the country amid allegations of “state capture.”
A judicial commission found they allegedly influenced ministerial appointments, received bribes, and siphoned off millions from state entities during Zuma’s tenure (2009–2018).
Ajay Gupta was declared a fugitive in 2018, though some charges were later dropped. His brothers remain in the United Arab Emirates after a 2023 court decision rejected South Africa’s extradition request.
Zuma, who now leads the opposition Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, was forced out of office in 2018 amid widespread corruption allegations linked to the Guptas and others.
South Africa is set to hold local government elections in November 2026, with the next national election in 2029.
The meeting has drawn sharp criticism from anti-corruption groups and analysts, who view it as a display of impunity and a painful reminder of past scandals that cost South African taxpayers dearly.
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