Gupta Brothers Secure Asylum in Central African Republic
Atul and Rajesh Gupta, two brothers accused of orchestrating widespread 'state capture' in South Africa, have reportedly been granted asylum in the Central African Republic (CAR). This significant development, reported on September 26, 2025, effectively shields them from extradition to South Africa, where they face charges related to corruption and fraud.
Accusations of State Capture
The Gupta brothers are central figures in allegations of 'state capture' during the presidency of Jacob Zuma in South Africa. They are accused of using their close ties to the former president to influence ministerial appointments, secure lucrative state contracts, and siphon off billions in state assets. The family's business empire, spanning mining, media, and technology, became synonymous with corruption and undue influence in South Africa.
Failed Extradition from the UAE
Following their departure from South Africa, Atul and Rajesh Gupta were arrested in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), in June 2022, after Interpol issued red notices against them. South Africa subsequently initiated extradition proceedings. However, in April 2023, UAE courts refused the extradition request, citing technicalities and issues with South Africa's paperwork. The UAE court also asserted its own jurisdiction over money laundering charges, claiming the alleged crimes occurred within its territory as well as in South Africa.
Asylum in the Central African Republic
The Gupta brothers petitioned CAR authorities for asylum, presenting themselves as victims and claiming a 'well-founded fear' of persecution. They argued that the criminal charges in South Africa were politically motivated reprisals for their 'intolerant views' of authority. The Central African Republic has a refugee law, enacted in 2007, which incorporates the 1951 Refugee Convention and the 1969 OAU Convention, outlining procedures for asylum seekers. The granting of asylum in CAR is particularly significant as South Africa reportedly has no extradition treaty with the country. This move effectively neutralizes the Interpol red notices, allowing the brothers to move as protected persons under international law within the CAR.
6 Comments
Fuerza
While it's frustrating to see alleged criminals evade justice, the CAR's adherence to international asylum laws, however inconvenient, is technically within its rights. This highlights the loopholes in global justice.
Manolo Noriega
On one hand, the granting of asylum to individuals accused of such widespread corruption feels like a slap in the face to South African citizens. On the other, it forces us to scrutinize the weaknesses in international legal cooperation and extradition treaties.
Fuerza
The CAR enabling alleged state capturers? Shameful! Where's the global outcry?
Ongania
Asylum is an international right, regardless of who is seeking it. CAR followed procedure.
Fuerza
It's easy to be outraged by this development, and justifiably so given the allegations against them. However, it also underscores the sovereignty of nations and their right to interpret and apply international laws, even when the outcome is unpopular.
Eugene Alta
South Africa deserves better. These criminals should be brought home to face charges.