Ebrahim Rasool returned to South Africa without regrets after being expelled as ambassador to the U.S. for criticizing President Trump. He emphasized the importance of Ubuntu diplomacy and expressed hope for a representative who can mend relations while upholding South African dignity. Despite his expulsion, he noted that his message resonated at high levels in the U.S. government.
Ebrahim Rasool, the expelled South African ambassador to the United States, returned to South Africa on March 24, 2025, stating he bears no regrets. After a 32-hour journey from the United States via Qatar, he and his wife, Rosieda, were warmly welcomed at Cape Town International Airport by hundreds of supporters.
Rasool was declared “persona non grata” after criticizing U.S. President Donald Trump during a webinar. Speaking to supporters at the airport, he recognized this label was meant to humiliate him, yet he transformed it into a “badge of honour” due to the compassionate reception he received.
Rasool highlighted that while conventional diplomacy was attempted, South Africa ultimately relied on the “diplomacy of Ubuntu.” He emphasized that this approach involves truthful yet gentle engagement with hosts to create better understanding and relations.
Rasool expressed hope that President Cyril Ramaphosa will select a representative who can mend relations with the United States while maintaining South African values. He stressed the importance of dignity in these negotiations and the need to advocate for South Africa’s interests.
When asked if he viewed the diplomatic efforts as unsuccessful, Rasool noted that significant responses from Trump and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated his message had reached the upper echelons of U.S. governance. His comments had struck a chord, validating the effectiveness of the diplomacy he advocated.
Following Rasool’s expulsion, Rubio described him as a “race-baiting politician who hates America and its president”. Rasool was given 72 hours to leave the U.S. and was deemed unfit for future accreditation as South Africa’s representative in Washington. He is expected to submit a detailed report to President Ramaphosa regarding the incident, who views the expulsion as a minor setback in bilateral relations.
In summary, Ebrahim Rasool’s return to South Africa post-expulsion symbolizes resilience amid diplomatic challenges. He reframed his lack of formal recognition into a source of pride and urged the necessity of pursuing South African values in international relations. His emphasis on Ubuntu diplomacy highlights a commitment to truth and engagement, aiming to restore ties with the United States respectfully. President Ramaphosa’s ongoing support highlights the importance of maintaining these diplomatic relations despite setbacks.
Original Source: www.dimsumdaily.hk
