Ebrahim Rasool, the South African ambassador to the U.S., was expelled from the country during the Trump administration because of his perceived anti-American sentiments directed towards President Trump. On his flight back to Cape Town, Rasool said that he felt no remorse over his comments, proudly donning what he termed ‘a badge of dignity.’
The Circumstances Leading Up To The Expulsion
The expulsion was as a result of comments Rasool made during a webinar concerning his critiques of the Trump administration’s attack on diversity and equity programs, which he interpreted as a Supremacist agenda. Rasool further argued that Trump was ‘mobilizing a supremacism’ where he rather skillfully attempted ‘white victimhood’ in a form of retaliation to demographic changes in America. These comments were also considered inappropriate by American officials and led to him being labeled a ‘persona non grata.’
Rasool was labeled a ‘race-baiting politician’ who has a deep-seated hatred towards America and claimed that President Trump was the one who single handedly sealed the border for Rasool. Marco Rubio uncategorically stated that the former U.S. ambassador no longer had any business in the United States, and he had no intention of discussing anything further with him.
Reactions From South Africa
The South African government issued a statement expressing displeasure with the expulsion, noting that such actions are not conducive to the strengthening of U.S – South African ties.
Presidential spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri noted that Pretoria was making arrangements to bring Rasool back and would look for a successor in due time.
Rasool’s Return and Statements
Hundreds of supporters greeted Rasool in Cape Town. He told the crowd, “It is not by choice that we come home, but we come home with absolutely no regrets.” He made it clear that he would wear the US sanction as a “badge of dignity,” reaffirming his remarks on the reason why he was exiled.
Diplomatic Implications
The expulsion of an ambassador is an action always bound to have turbulent consequences for the relations of both the countries. While this move is bound to cause strategic trouble, it will also add to the existing disconnect stir created because of the South African government’s land policy and the country’s legal war against Israel in the International Court of Justice. It is claimed that the US government is changing its mind about the South Africa policy in light of these issues.
Conclusion
The anecdote of Ebrahim Rasool’s expulsion is a testimony of how deeply international diplomacy can be interwoven with domestic politics. The issue helps highlight the posture South Africa may adopt regarding relations with America, showing how diplomatically active or passive they need to be.