Expelled South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool Returns Home, Embraces U.S. Sanction as ‘Badge of Dignity’
Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s former ambassador to the United States, received a hero’s welcome upon his return to Cape Town after being expelled by the Trump administration. Hundreds of supporters gathered at the airport, singing and praising Rasool for his stance.
Background of the Expulsion
The U.S. declared Rasool persona non grata following his remarks during a South African think tank webinar, where he criticized President Donald Trump’s actions against diversity and equity programs, suggesting they had supremacist undertones. This led Secretary of State Marco Rubio to label Rasool a “race-baiting politician” and announce his expulsion.
Rasool’s Defiant Stance
Upon arrival in Cape Town, Rasool addressed his supporters, stating he would wear the U.S. sanction as a “badge of dignity.” He stood by his previous comments and emphasized the importance of maintaining South Africa’s principles in international relations.
South Africa’s Response
The South African government expressed regret over the expulsion but reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining beneficial relations with the U.S. President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office emphasized the need for diplomatic decorum in addressing the issue.
Implications for U.S.-South Africa Relations
This incident adds strain to the already tense relations between the two nations, following disagreements over land policies and South Africa’s stance on international matters. The expulsion of an ambassador is a rare and significant diplomatic action, highlighting the depth of the current discord.
Source : Swifteradio.com
