South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool returned amid a jubilant welcome after his expulsion from the U.S. due to political comments about President Trump. He addressed the tensions between South Africa and the U.S., underscoring the need for a new approach to foreign relations while asserting that he wears his expulsion as a “badge of dignity.” Strengthening ties with the U.S. is a priority, but must not compromise South African values.
The South African ambassador expelled from the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, returned to a vibrant reception in Cape Town on Sunday. His return was marked by a defiant stance regarding the circumstances of his expulsion, attributing the decline in relations between Washington and Pretoria to several key issues, including U.S. financial aid cuts initiated by President Trump related to South Africa’s land policies and foreign policy disagreements.
Rasool expressed no regrets about returning home, stating, “It was not our choice to come home, but we come home with no regrets.” His comments came after facing accusations from the Trump administration of being a “race-baiting politician.” U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Rasool was expelled following his critical statements regarding Trump’s political movement.
Upon arrival, Rasool received enthusiastic cheers from supporters, predominantly members of the African National Congress. He remarked, “I want to say that we would have liked to come back with a welcome like this if we could report to you that we had turned away the lies of a white genocide in South Africa.” He acknowledged the challenges faced in the international dialogue surrounding South Africa’s policies.
Rasool defended his statements about U.S. politics, emphasizing the need for South Africa to adopt a fresh approach in dealing with American leadership. He noted that the issue he raised resonated significantly, evident by his expulsion, and conveyed that positive change must incorporate a deeper understanding of the U.S. political landscape.
As South Africa holds the G20 presidency, Rasool underscored strengthening ties with the United States as a priority but cautioned that such efforts should not compromise South African values. He stated, “The declaration of persona non grata is meant to humiliate you, but… I will wear my persona non grata as a badge of dignity.” Aside from aid cuts, tensions have also arisen from South Africa’s position regarding Israel’s actions, further complicating diplomatic relations between the countries.
Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool’s return to South Africa was marked by a robust reception and a forthright defense of his views on U.S. politics and foreign relations. His expulsion from the U.S. reveals deepening tensions between the two nations, primarily driven by differing political ideologies and critical international policies. As South Africa contemplates its approach to international relations, the ambassador’s words emphasize the importance of maintaining national integrity while engaging with global powers.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
