Opposition parties in South Africa have urged President Ramaphosa to resist US intimidation following the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool. Key figures criticized the US’s actions, asserting South Africa’s sovereignty, while relations between both nations have deteriorated since Trump’s presidency. The need for direct diplomatic dialogue has been emphasized as tensions escalate over land policies and perceived discrimination.
In light of the recent diplomatic tensions, opposition parties in South Africa have urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to stand firm against what they perceive as bullying by the United States. The call came after Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool was declared unwelcome in the US and given 72 hours to depart the country, following derogatory remarks from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who labeled Rasool as a “race-baiting politician who hates America.”
The relationship between South Africa and the US has been strained since the administration of former President Donald Trump. Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola emphasized to the state broadcaster SABC that engaging in “Twitter diplomacy” is unproductive, advocating instead for direct communication between the two nations.
Julius Malema of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) vehemently criticized the US’s actions, urging President Ramaphosa to resist bullying and labeling Trump as the “orange clown occupying the White House.” Additionally, Pan Africanist Congress Secretary General Apa Pooe condemned the US expulsion of Rasool, viewing it as an affront to South Africa’s sovereignty. He asserted, “SA is not a puppet of the US, we have the right to govern our country without any interference.”
President Trump has been particularly critical of South Africa’s land reform policies, which enable the government to expropriate land without compensation. In addition to cutting aid to South Africa, Trump has voiced concerns over alleged discrimination against the white Afrikaner minority, claims which the South African government has rejected.
Ambassador Rasool, who previously served from 2010 to 2015 during President Obama’s administration, was reappointed in 2024 due to his extensive connections in Washington. Nevertheless, establishing meetings with the current administration has proven challenging for him, as indicated by an unnamed South African diplomat who noted Rasool’s history of pro-Palestine activism may hinder his effectiveness.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), part of South Africa’s governing coalition, has also expressed concern about the appointment processes for foreign diplomats, criticizing the African National Congress (ANC) for monopolizing foreign policy despite only holding 39% of the vote. DA spokesperson Willie Aucamp called for a more inclusive approach, suggesting that other members of the government should engage directly with US officials to mitigate tensions.
The diplomatic rift between South Africa and the United States has triggered strong reactions from opposition parties, advocating for a united front against perceived bullying from the US. Significant figures, including President Ramaphosa and Minister Lamola, emphasize the necessity for constructive dialogue over social media condemnation. This controversy highlights the complexities of South Africa’s international relations, particularly regarding its sovereignty and domestic policies which have drawn the ire of foreign leaders, notably Donald Trump. Looking forward, the necessity for a collaborative approach in foreign diplomacy is increasingly evident.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
