The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has confirmed that it has recalled its High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, and will introduce stricter travel rules for former Presidents and Deputy Presidents.

This follows Jacob Zuma’s recent controversial trip to the sub-continent, during which he visited one of the State-Capture accused Gupta brothers, Ajay.

Sooklal has been recalled to Pretoria for consultations, while DIRCO has submitted a recommendation to Parliament and the Presidency to consider a new framework for protocol and diplomatic support for former Heads of State when they embark on international trips.

Minister Ronald Lamola says as part of this framework, a mandatory disclosure mechanism will be established requiring former Presidents and Deputy Presidents, who seek protocol and diplomatic support, to provide the full details of the purpose of travel, programme of activities, sources of funding, principal hosts, key engagements and the capacity in which they will be travelling.

Lamola says this will enable an informed assessment of the appropriate level of support required and any associated reputational, political, diplomatic or security risks.

Zuma’s recent trip to India raised serious eyebrows when he declared he will win the “next elections.” He also defended his “friend and brother” Ajay Gupta, whom he says was unfairly forced to leave South Africa.

During an interview with Newzroom Afrika, Lamola said Zuma was “clearly sending a message against the South African government”, adding that it could damage the country’s reputation, as Zuma’s utterances countered official foreign policy.

“It is a recurring conduct that needs to be addressed as soon as possible so that these services are not used for any parallel political program that runs counter to South Africa’s foreign services.”

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola says the department is taking steps to review privileges enjoyed by former presidents following former President Jacob Zuma’s visit to Morocco and India.

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— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) August 6, 2026