Secretary of State Marco Rubio has labeled South Africa’s ambassador to the U.S., Emrahim Rasool, as persona non grata after Rasool’s comments suggesting Trump’s actions are linked to White supremacy. This development follows Trump’s criticisms of South Africa’s land expropriation policies, prompting an executive order aimed at penalizing the nation and supporting Afrikaner refugees. The South African government maintains that its policies are aimed at public benefit and do not constitute discrimination.
On Friday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared South Africa’s ambassador to the United States, Emrahim Rasool, as “persona non grata,” labeling him a “race-baiting” politician with animosity towards the United States and President Donald Trump. Rubio’s remarks followed Rasool’s controversial statements regarding Trump’s rhetoric, which the ambassador characterized as a manifestation of White supremacy.
During a recent address at the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection in Johannesburg, Ambassador Rasool commented on Trump’s opposition to South Africa’s expropriation law and the country’s stance on Israel. He asserted that Trump’s “Make America Great Again” movement is a reaction to demographic shifts within the U.S. electorate, predicting a future in which White voters could comprise 48% of the voting population.
In response to Rasool’s comments, Rubio took to X, affirming, “South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States is no longer welcome in our great country.” He emphasized that there is no ground for discussion with Rasool, firmly asserting that he is not welcome in the U.S.
President Trump has previously criticized South Africa for enacting a land expropriation law allowing the government to seize land without compensation. In February, Trump signed an executive order aimed at penalizing South Africa, denouncing the Expropriation Act for undermining individuals’ rights and enabling racial discrimination against minority landholders, particularly Afrikaners.
Furthermore, the executive order specified that the United States would cease aid to South Africa as long as the law remains in effect and would encourage the resettlement of Afrikaner refugees fleeing racial discrimination linked to land seizures. The order also denounced South Africa’s stance against Israel, labeling it harmful to U.S. foreign policy and national security, alongside its engagement with Iran.
The South African government counters that White individuals, not just Afrikaners, continue to own approximately 70% of the nation’s land. Officials assert that the Expropriation Act is intended to facilitate land acquisition for public benefit purposes, such as educational facilities, and emphasizes that any land taken will be compensated fairly and equitably, conditional on owner consent.
In conclusion, Secretary Marco Rubio’s declaration of South Africa’s ambassador as persona non grata highlights escalating tensions between the United States and South Africa, stemming from controversial political statements and policies. The ongoing conflict over land expropriation further complicates diplomatic relations, as the U.S. positions itself against perceived rights violations and supports minority populations affected by these laws. The situation remains critical, reflecting broader geopolitical implications.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
