Q: ...of Mbeki and other political heads in the public service areas such as home affairs, immigration, labour etc.. is this a common practice around the world?

A: Yes it is very common! For the same reason they do in Zimbabwe of Mugabe and the Queen in England. They feel it is respectful to their government. Also that when people look at it they are reminded who is in charge and the dictator of the country (that goes for SA + Zim etc)
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