Ebrahim Rasool returned to South Africa after his expulsion from the U.S., feeling no regrets. He views the “persona non grata” label as a badge of honour, promoting the philosophy of Ubuntu in diplomacy. Rasool expressed hope for improved U.S.-South Africa relations and affirmed that his message resonated widely. Overall, he maintains optimism despite the challenges faced.
On March 24, 2025, Ebrahim Rasool, the former South African ambassador to the United States, returned to Cape Town with a sense of pride and no regrets following his expulsion. He was warmly welcomed by hundreds of supporters after a lengthy journey from the U.S. via Qatar, accompanied by his wife, Rosieda.
Rasool was declared “persona non grata” by U.S. authorities in early March due to critical remarks he made about President Donald Trump during a webinar. At the airport, he recognized the humiliation intended by this designation but felt buoyed by the supportive reception, viewing it as a “badge of honour.”
Emphasizing the African philosophy of Ubuntu, he stated, “When you return to a crowd like this, feeling the warmth… then I will wear my persona non grata as a badge of dignity.” Rasool believed that this perspective on unity and community was significant in his return home.
He discussed the concept of the “diplomacy of Ubuntu,” asserting it fosters honest communication and engagement rather than deceit. He expressed a desire for President Cyril Ramaphosa to appoint a representative who can restore U.S.-South Africa relations while honoring the nation’s values, stating, “We must fight for it, but we must keep our dignity.”
When questioned about the effectiveness of his diplomatic efforts, Rasool noted that the reactions from Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that his message was impactful, proving that the “diplomacy of Ubuntu has certainly worked.”
Rasool’s departure was marked by Rubio’s assertions that he was a “race-baiting politician who hates America.” Following this announcement, he had 72 hours to exit the U.S., rendering him unacceptable for future diplomacy roles. Rasool plans to report on this episode to President Ramaphosa, who views the incident as a minor setback in South Africa’s relations with Washington.
In summary, Ebrahim Rasool’s return to South Africa signifies a strong adherence to his principles, as he embraces the label of persona non grata with dignity. His commitment to the values of Ubuntu and honest engagement highlights the importance of integrity in diplomacy. Despite his expulsion, Rasool remains optimistic about future diplomatic endeavors under President Ramaphosa’s leadership, viewing the situation as a potential catalyst for growth in international relations.
Original Source: www.dimsumdaily.hk
