Former South African President Jacob Zuma has been mentioned in the latest release of the Epstein files after his name appeared in several emails linked to the late financier.
The emails relate to a dinner that Jeffrey Epstein appeared to help arrange for Zuma in London in 2010. According to the correspondence, the dinner was also attended by a “beautiful” Russian model.
Being named in the Epstein files does not imply wrongdoing.
The Jacob Zuma Foundation has dismissed reports about the emails as “agenda-driven journalism built on innuendo” and “guilt by association,” stating that there was no unlawful or improper conduct by the former president.
The email chain included in the files begins with a message dated 4 March 2010 from an individual organising the dinner to a potential guest, copying Epstein. The email said the sender was assisting in arranging a small dinner for President Jacob Zuma of South Africa at the Ritz Hotel in London and invited the recipient to attend, noting that Epstein believed their presence would add “real glamour” to the event. The guest was asked to provide personal details in advance so a summary of attendees could be presented to the president.
The recipient replied, also copying Epstein, thanking them for the invitation and confirming attendance. The individual described herself as a Russian model living in London, represented by a major modelling agency, and asked whether the event required black tie or cocktail attire.
In a separate message, Epstein contacted British politician Lord Peter Mandelson, stating that a dinner for Zuma was taking place at the Ritz and that he had invited a “beautiful Russian” guest. There is no recorded response from Mandelson.
Another email sent by Epstein on 6 March to an unidentified recipient received a reply the following day praising the Russian guest, describing her elegance and charm, and adding that Jacob Zuma was “much more impressive and engaging” than expected.
The Jacob Zuma Foundation, responding to coverage of the emails, said the reports relied on third-party correspondence and retrospective guilt by association. The foundation said none of the material alleged or established any unlawful or improper behaviour by Zuma and described attempts to link him to Epstein’s unrelated crimes as unethical and irresponsible.
Zuma was in the United Kingdom on a state visit from 3 to 5 March 2010.
Epstein, a well-connected US financier and convicted sex offender, was found dead in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
