South Africa to tighten rules on former presidents' foreign trips after Zuma's India visit

South Africa’s foreign affairs minister Ronald Lamola has tabled a recommendation for parliament that would require former heads of state to obtain approval and disclose full details before undertaking any foreign trips. The proposal, aimed at increasing transparency and assessing reputational, political, diplomatic and security risks, comes after ex‑President Jacob Zuma’s controversial visit to India, where the 84‑year‑old met businessman Ajay Gupta – a figure linked to the massive “state capture” corruption scandal that helped bring down Zuma’s government. A photograph of Zuma and Gupta at an Indian temple sparked outrage, leading to the recall of South Africa’s high commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal. Zuma, expelled from the African National Congress and now leader of the opposition uMkhonto we Sizwe, has previously caused controversy with trips to Morocco.

The new protocol would obligate former leaders to provide detailed itineraries and purpose of travel, allowing the government to evaluate any associated reputational, political, diplomatic or security risks before granting support.