The U.S. has expelled South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, citing his race-baiting remarks and criticism of Donald Trump. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated Rasool is persona non grata. The South African presidency has expressed disappointment, while former ambassador Patrick Gaspard noted deteriorating U.S.-South Africa relations and the need for repair.
The United States has formally expelled Ebrahim Rasool, the South African ambassador to Washington, labeling him a “race-baiting politician who hates America.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio asserted that Rasool is “no longer welcome in our great country” and indicated that U.S. officials have nothing further to discuss with him, designating him persona non grata. This banishment follows Rasool’s remarks characterizing Donald Trump as a leader of a “white supremacist” movement.
This decision marks Rasool’s second tenure as ambassador, having previously served from 2010 to 2015. A spokesperson from the State Department confirmed that Rasool is required to depart by March 21. In response, the South African presidency expressed disappointment over the diplomatically regrettable expulsion, urging those involved to uphold diplomatic decorum and reiterating their commitment to nurturing a mutually beneficial relationship with the United States.
Patrick Gaspard, a former U.S. ambassador to South Africa, noted that tensions between the two countries are at their “lowest point” since Trump took office again. Recent actions by the U.S. President, including cutting aid to Johannesburg and accusing its government of “unjust racial discrimination” against white Afrikaner farmers, have exacerbated these tensions. Furthermore, he has suggested granting refugee status to individuals facing hardships in South Africa amidst new legislation facilitating land expropriation without compensation.
Both right- and left-wing South African political factions have denounced the accusations against Rasool as misconceptions. As Rasool steps down, Gaspard emphasized the importance of repairing the partnership between the U.S. and South Africa, stating, “There’s too much at stake to not work towards the repair of this partnership.”
In summary, the U.S. expulsion of South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, prompted by allegations of race-baiting and comments regarding Donald Trump, indicates a significant diplomatic rift between the two nations. With the South African presidency urging for diplomatic decorum, the situation reflects ongoing tensions exacerbated by U.S. policy changes under the current administration. The need for improved bilateral relations remains critical, as highlighted by former ambassador Patrick Gaspard’s call for partnership repair.
Original Source: www.gbnews.com
