Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s former U.S. ambassador, returned home with no regrets after being expelled due to critical remarks about President Trump. He embraced his expulsion as a “badge of honour,” highlighting the philosophy of Ubuntu in diplomacy. Rasool seeks a representative who can restore U.S. relations while maintaining dignity, viewing his experiences as a sign of impactful engagement despite the setback.
Ebrahim Rasool, the former South African ambassador to the U.S., returned to Cape Town on March 24, 2025, expressing no regrets about his recent expulsion. Arriving with his wife Rosieda after a lengthy trip from the U.S. through Qatar, he was warmly welcomed by supporters at the airport.
Rasool was declared “persona non grata” by U.S. authorities due to critical comments he made about President Trump during a webinar on strategic reflection. Addressing the crowd of around 300, he stated that this designation was meant to humiliate him but turned it into a “badge of honour” through the supportive reception he received.
He articulated that the warmth he felt highlighted the African philosophy of Ubuntu, likening his return to a sign of dignity. Rasool noted South Africa’s approach of the “diplomacy of Ubuntu,” which emphasizes truthful communication in diplomatic engagements without deception.
Rasool expressed optimism that President Cyril Ramaphosa would find a capable representative to mend U.S. relations, stressing the importance of retaining South African dignity. Addressing whether the diplomatic efforts failed, he highlighted the significant attention received from Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as a sign that his message was impactful.
The U.S. expulsion was publicly announced by Rubio, who denounced Rasool as a “race-baiting politician.” Subsequently, Rasool was given 72 hours to leave the country and was barred from future U.S. accreditations. He is to submit a comprehensive report about the incident to President Ramaphosa, who views this expulsion as a minor setback in relations with the U.S.
Ebrahim Rasool’s return to South Africa following his expulsion from the U.S. highlights the complicated nature of diplomatic relations. Despite the challenges he faced, Rasool’s commitment to the principles of Ubuntu and dignity remains central to his approach. His experiences underline the importance of honest dialogue in international relations, and his expulsion, viewed as a minor setback, reflects ongoing challenges in diplomatic engagements between South Africa and the U.S.
Original Source: www.dimsumdaily.hk
