Ebrahim Rasool, the expelled South African ambassador, returned home after criticisms of President Trump led to his persona non grata status. Acknowledged by supporters, he emphasized the importance of Ubuntu in diplomacy. He hopes for a renewed U.S. relationship under President Ramaphosa without compromising South African values.
Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s recently expelled ambassador to the United States, returned to Cape Town on March 23, 2025, after a lengthy 32-hour journey. Accompanied by his wife Rosieda, he was welcomed by a throng of supporters at Cape Town International Airport, expressing pride in his return with “no regrets”.
His expulsion was prompted by critical remarks he made about U.S. President Donald Trump during a webinar earlier this month. Rasool addressed approximately 300 supporters, emphasizing that being labeled “persona non grata” was intended to humiliate him; instead, he perceived it as a mark of honor due to the community’s warm reception.
Rasool articulated that while conventional diplomacy was attempted, South Africa ultimately needed to engage in what he referred to as the “diplomacy of Ubuntu,” which advocates for truthful yet gentle engagement without denying wrongdoings. This approach emphasizes intellectual engagement and persuasive dialogue.
He expressed hope that President Cyril Ramaphosa would appoint an individual capable of rebuilding the relationship with the United States while maintaining South Africa’s dignity. Rasool argued that his criticisms resonated so strongly that they gained the attention of high-level officials, reaffirming that the diplomacy of Ubuntu had achieved its goal.
The expulsion was publicized by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who criticized Rasool as a “race-baiting politician who hates America”. Following the announcement, Rasool was required to leave the United States within 72 hours, bearing an “unacceptable” status for future representation. He is set to submit a comprehensive report on the incident to President Ramaphosa, who views the expulsion as merely a minor setback in the bilateral relationship with the U.S.
Ebrahim Rasool’s return to South Africa following his expulsion signifies a complex diplomatic situation marked by his adherence to the values of Ubuntu. He believes that his truthful engagement resonated with U.S. officials, turning personal humiliation into a communal honor. As South Africa seeks to mend ties with the United States, Rasool’s experience highlights the delicate balance of maintaining national dignity while pursuing diplomatic relations.
Original Source: english.news.cn
