South African opposition parties have condemned the US’s expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, urging President Cyril Ramaphosa to resist US bullying. Minister Ronald Lamola advocates face-to-face discussions rather than Twitter diplomacy. The EFF and PAC criticized the US’s actions, asserting South African sovereignty. Many express concern over the ANC’s control over foreign policy amidst worsening US-South Africa relations since Trump’s administration.
The South African opposition has urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to resist pressure from the United States following the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, who was given 72 hours to leave the country. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeled Rasool a “race-baiting politician who hates America,” escalating tensions between South Africa and the US since the Trump administration’s tenure began.
Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola emphasized the need for direct communication, stating that “it is not helpful to engage in Twitter diplomacy.” However, opposition leaders were more vocal in their criticism. Julius Malema’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) condemned the US, urging the president not to concede to bullying by the “orange clown” in the White House.
The Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) also denounced the US’s actions as an infringement on South Africa’s sovereignty. Secretary General Apa Pooe insisted, “SA is not a puppet of the US; we have the right to govern our country without interference.”
President Trump has criticized South Africa’s land reform policies, leading to cuts in aid due to allegations of discrimination against the white Afrikaner minority, claims South Africa has rejected. Rasool, a former ambassador under President Obama, was reinstated in 2024 but is facing difficulties in securing meetings with Trump.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has raised concerns over the African National Congress (ANC) having unchecked power in foreign policy decisions. DA spokesperson Willie Aucamp suggested that members of the governing coalition should be involved in diplomatic appointments to help alleviate strained relations with the US.
The tensions between South Africa and the United States have heightened due to the recent expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool. South African opposition parties are advocating for assertive diplomatic decisions free from foreign influence. While some government officials call for more diplomacy, critics insist on sovereignty and fairness in foreign policy representation. This complex situation underscores the need for balanced international relations.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
