this event occurred in late June 2026. Former South African President and current uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party president Jacob Zuma visited Haridwar in Uttarakhand, India, where he was photographed and filmed offering prayers at the Siddhpeeth Shri Dakshin Kali Mandir (also referred to as Dakshin Kali Temple). He was accompanied by his long-time associate Ajay Gupta (one of the Gupta brothers), South Africa’s High Commissioner to India Professor Anil Sooklal, and MK Party figure Mzwanele Manyi.
Key Details of the Visit
- Date and Location: Around 26 June 2026 at the temple in Haridwar, a major Hindu pilgrimage site. Zuma participated in prayers and received blessings from spiritual leader Swami Kailashanand Giri (Niranjani Akhara Mahamandaleshwar), who described it as Zuma’s first visit to the area.
- Context: Indian media widely covered the event, noting Ajay Gupta’s connection to the ashram as a disciple/member. Zuma referred to Gupta as his “friend” and “brother” and mentioned visiting him after Gupta had to leave South Africa. In videos and statements, Zuma expressed confidence about future electoral success (referencing MK Party ahead of 2026 local government elections and beyond) following the blessings.
- Accompaniment: The presence of South Africa’s High Commissioner has drawn particular scrutiny, prompting an internal investigation ordered by International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola into the diplomat’s involvement and whether proper protocols were followed. Lamola noted that former presidents receive certain privileges but should not run a “parallel foreign policy.”
Background and Controversies
The Gupta family (Atul, Ajay, and Rajesh Gupta) faced major allegations in South Africa’s State Capture scandal during Zuma’s presidency (2009–2018). They were accused of influencing government appointments, contracts, and policy for personal gain, leading to significant corruption inquiries (e.g., the Zondo Commission). The brothers fled South Africa amid investigations; they face fraud charges, and there is an Interpol red notice in place. Zuma has long denied improper ties, framing the relationship as personal friendship.
This reunion has reignited public debate:
- Criticism: Many view it as insensitive or tone-deaf, especially amid South Africa’s ongoing challenges like protests over undocumented migrants, economic issues, and public fatigue with state capture legacies. Opponents call it a “slap in the face” to South Africans affected by alleged corruption.
- MK Party Defense: The party has defended Zuma, portraying the trip as private/personal and emphasizing his right to travel and maintain friendships. They argue it does not reflect on his political role.
- Diplomatic Angle: The involvement of official South African representation raises questions about boundaries between private visits and state resources/protocol.
Broader Implications
- Political Timing: With South Africa heading into local elections in 2026 and national ones later, the optics could influence perceptions of Zuma and MK Party—either energizing his base (which often sees him as a victim of political persecution) or alienating moderates and anti-corruption voters.
- International Relations: It highlights complexities in South Africa-India ties, personal networks spanning continents, and challenges in managing former leaders’ activities.
- Public Reaction: Social media and news commentary show polarized views—supporters focus on Zuma’s spiritual/cultural engagement and loyalty to friends; critics emphasize accountability and the Guptas’ fugitive status.
Zuma’s visit aligns with his public persona, which frequently incorporates traditional, spiritual, and personal elements alongside politics.
