Ebrahim Rasool returned to South Africa after being expelled as ambassador to the U.S., expressing no regrets. His expulsion followed criticism of President Trump, which he viewed as a recognition of his message rather than a failure in diplomacy. He promotes engaging truthfully while preserving dignity, hoping for improved U.S.-South Africa relations.
Ebrahim Rasool, the expelled South African ambassador to the United States, returned to Cape Town International Airport on March 23, 2025, after a long 32-hour journey that included a transit in Qatar. He and his wife, Rosieda, were greeted by a large gathering of supporters who extended a warm welcome. Expressing his emotions at the airport, Rasool stated that he returned home “with no regrets.”
Rasool’s expulsion occurred after he criticized U.S. President Donald Trump during a webinar held by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, marking him as “persona non grata” by the U.S. government. Addressing approximately 300 supporters, he noted that while this label sought to demean him, the reception he received turned it into a mark of honor. He stated, “I will wear my persona non grata as a badge of dignity… as a badge that we have done the right thing.”
The ambassador emphasized the importance of “Ubuntu,” a philosophy that highlights interconnectedness and community. According to Rasool, the “diplomacy of Ubuntu” signifies the art of truth-telling in a respectful manner rather than flattering hosts or ignoring issues. He expressed hopes that President Cyril Ramaphosa would identify a representative who could ameliorate South Africa’s relationship with the United States while maintaining its values.
During discussions about whether his diplomatic efforts failed, Rasool remarked that the U.S. government’s reaction, including attention from both Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, indicated that his criticisms resonated at high levels. He referred to the expulsion order, declared by Rubio as a “race-baiting” response to his remarks, highlighting the potential effectiveness of his engagements.
Rasool is expected to brief President Ramaphosa on the circumstances surrounding his expulsion, while Ramaphosa himself regarded the incident as a minor obstacle in the broader context of U.S.-South Africa relations.
In summary, Ebrahim Rasool’s return as the expelled South African ambassador underscores significant diplomatic challenges and the resilience of South Africa’s values. His criticism of U.S. leadership garnered attention, despite resulting in his designation as persona non grata. Highlighting the philosophy of Ubuntu, he remains hopeful for future diplomatic efforts that honor South African dignity and ethics while fostering better relations with the United States.
Original Source: english.news.cn
