President Jacob Zuma has proposed a deal which would allow autocratic leaders in Africa immunity from prosecution in exchange for their retirement, the Sunday Times reported on Sunday.

"The world has changed, therefore, let us do things differently and not emphasise punishment.

"If you are saying: 'Okay move out, but tomorrow, we are going to deal with you', then you are causing a problem with somebody saying: 'Why should I leave, when I still have power? I had better remain here'," Zuma said in a televised conversation with Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

"The leadership of Africa today must come very boldly and deal with these issues. It's not for our sake as leaders. It's for the sake of our people, for the sake of our continent," Zuma said.

Zuma declined to name any leaders who might be candidates for immunity.

It is widely perceived that Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe and his regime were motivated to hold onto power because they feared prosecution for crimes against humanity going as far back as the massacre of 20 000 people in Matabeleland from 1982 to 1985.

It has also been cited as a factor hindering the agreement of a peace deal in Uganda. Lord's Resistance Army leader Joseph Kony has been said to be reluctant to sign an agreement because he fears prosecution of crimes, not least of which include sexual violence against women and girls and the conscription of child soldiers from villages.