Zuko Komisa
The United States has ordered the expulsion of South Africa’s ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, citing inflammatory remarks and escalating diplomatic friction between the two nations.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio publicly labeled the envoy a “race-baiting politician” with animosity towards the administration.
This move marks a significant downturn in relations, which have been strained since the current administration cut financial assistance to South Africa. The aid reduction was attributed to disagreements over South Africa’s land policy and its recent legal challenge at the International Court of Justice in support of genocide accusations against Israel.
The South African government said the US decision to expel South Africa’s ambassador was “regrettable”, the office of the president said on Saturday.
“The Presidency has noted the regrettable expulsion of South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States of America, Mr. Ebrahim Rasool,” a statement issued by the presidency of the Republic of South Africa reads.
The decision to expel the ambassador stemmed from controversial statements attributed to the envoy, including allegations published by Breitbart, a right-wing news outlet, that the current administration was leading a white supremacist movement. A State Department spokesperson confirmed the ambassador has been given until 21 March to depart.
In response, the South African government expressed regret over the expulsion. Statements issued by the presidency and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation indicated that South Africa remains dedicated to fostering mutually beneficial relations with the United States. They further stated their intention to address the diplomatic incident through established channels.
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