Opposition parties in South Africa, following the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool by the U.S., urged President Ramaphosa to resist American pressure. Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola emphasized the need for direct dialogue, while various politicians criticized U.S. actions as infringements on national sovereignty. The article discusses the strained relations between South Africa and the U.S. since Trump’s administration and raises concerns about foreign policy control within the South African government.
Opposition parties in South Africa assert that the nation’s president should resist “bullying” from the United States following the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool. The U.S. State Secretary Marco Rubio labeled Rasool as a “race-baiting politician who hates America,” resulting in a demand for his departure within 72 hours. This incident adds to escalating tensions between the two countries since former U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration began.
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations, Ronald Lamola, emphasized the importance of direct dialogue rather than engaging in “Twitter diplomacy,” advocating for face-to-face discussions to resolve issues. Conversely, various South African politicians responded more fiercely. Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, issued harsh criticism towards the United States and urged President Cyril Ramaphosa not to allow the country to be intimidated by the current U.S. administration.
The Pan Africanist Congress, represented by Secretary General Apa Pooe, condemned the U.S. decision as a violation of South Africa’s sovereignty, asserting the nation’s right to govern independently. He highlighted, “South Africa is not a puppet of the U.S; we have the right to govern our country without any interference.” Additionally, President Trump has publicly criticized South Africa’s land reform policy, which permits land confiscation without compensation.
Ambassador Rasool previously served from 2010 to 2015 and was reappointed in 2024 based on his extensive experience and connections in Washington. However, establishing meetings with President Trump has proven challenging for Rasool due to his activism for pro-Palestine issues. A South African diplomat mentioned that such a background could hinder his effectiveness in the current political climate.
The Democratic Alliance, a coalition partner in the South African government, called for a reevaluation of the African National Congress’s control over foreign diplomacy, questioning why a party with only 39% representation has unilateral power in such decisions. They recommend allowing all members of the government of national unity to engage with Washington to ease diplomatic tensions.
The opposition in South Africa has expressed strong discontent regarding the United States’ expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, urging President Ramaphosa to stand firm against American pressure. While Minister Lamola advocates for constructive dialogue, other political figures have criticized American interventions as assaults on South African sovereignty. The ongoing tensions highlight the complexities of South African foreign policy and the influence of U.S. politics on diplomatic relations.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
