Zuma's ‘Middle Finger’ Meeting Sparks Controversy

Former President Jacob Zuma has reportedly signalled his intention to run again after meeting Ajay Gupta, a key figure linked to a controversial corruption saga.

The meeting, captured in a photograph published by Indian media, has reignited criticism over Zuma’s ties to the Gupta brothers, who were at the centre of South Africa’s “state capture” scandal.

South Africa’s state capture inquiry, presented in the 2022 Zondo report, found Zuma had hired and fired ministers at the Guptas’ behest—specifically sacking Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene in 2015 and appointing later ministers aligned with the family.

The Gupta brothers, accused of exploiting their connections for personal gain, left South Africa in 2018. While documents suggested that Zuma was a collaborator, the former president consistently denied wrongdoing.

In the meeting’s aftermath, South African officials—including cabinet minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni—labelled Zuma’s actions as “disturbing” and “a disgrace.” They demanded an investigation, citing concerns that the former president is running a parallel foreign policy.

International relations minister Ronald Lamola said Zuma’s defiant stance shows a “parallel foreign policy,” potentially affecting South Africa’s diplomatic ties. The MK party, led by Zuma, captured roughly 15% of the vote in the 2024 elections, a notable drop from the ANC’s historical dominance.