By Johnathan Paoli
The South African government and political parties have reacted strongly to the United States’ decision to expel Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, with responses ranging from diplomatic regret to outright condemnation of Washington’s stance.
The controversy began when US Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared Rasool persona non grata via social media, accusing him of being a race-baiting politician who despises the US and its executive.
This expulsion, a rare and significant diplomatic move, comes amid increasing tensions between the country and South Africa over various policy differences, including land reform and South Africa’s stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya expressed regret over the expulsion, emphasising South Africa’s commitment to diplomacy.
“The Presidency has noted the regrettable expulsion of South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States of America, Ebrahim Rasool. The Presidency urges all relevant and impacted stakeholders to maintain the established diplomatic decorum in their
You’ve reached your free article limit
Subscribe to enjoy unlimited access to trusted journalism. Cancel anytime.
Subscribe nowNeed help? molokom@insidepolitic.co.za
