ADVERTISEMENT

US says South Africa's ambassador "is no longer welcome" in the country

The US is expelling South Africa's ambassador to Washington, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio describing him as a "race-baiting politician" with strong anti-Trump sentiments.

US says South Africa's ambassador is no longer welcome in the country
  • The US is expelling South Africa's ambassador to Washington, accusing him of being a 'race-baiting politician' with strong anti-Trump sentiments.
  • South Africa's presidency described the decision as 'regrettable' and stated the country's commitment to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with the US.
  • Diplomatic relations between the US and South Africa have worsened since Trump's return to power.
ADVERTISEMENT

The US is expelling South Africa's ambassador to Washington, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio describing him as a "race-baiting politician" with strong anti-Trump sentiments.

"South Africa's Ambassador to the United States is no longer welcome in our great country," Rubio said on Friday in a post on X about the rare barring of a nation's top diplomat.

"Ebrahim Rasool is a race-baiting politician who hates America and hates @Potus (Trump)."

ADVERTISEMENT

South Africa’s presidency on Saturday described the decision as "regrettable," stating that the country remains committed to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with the U.S. and will address the issue through diplomatic channels.

On Friday, Rubio shared a post linking to an article from the right-wing publication Breitbart, which cited remarks Rasool recently made during an online lecture discussing the Trump administration.

While the expulsion of lower-ranking diplomats is not uncommon, it is rare for the U.S. to take such action against a senior official. According to Reuters, a State Department spokesperson confirmed that the ambassador must depart by March 21.

ADVERTISEMENT

Diplomatic relations between the U.S. and South Africa have worsened since Trump's return to power.

Earlier this month, the U.S. cut financial aid to South Africa, citing opposition to its land reform policies and its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.

South African-born billionaire Elon Musk, a Trump ally, has also criticized the country's land policies, claiming that white South Africans face "racist ownership laws."

Musk further alleged that his satellite internet service, Starlink, is barred from operating in South Africa because he is "not Black."

ADVERTISEMENT

In January, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a bill allowing land expropriation in the public interest, in some cases without compensation.

However, he has defended the policy as a necessary step to address racial disparities in land ownership, emphasizing that no land has been seized under the legislation.

FOLLOW BUSINESS INSIDER AFRICA

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Recommended articles

Israel disappointed by Ghana’s neutral stance on Iran nuclear compliance vote

Israel disappointed by Ghana’s neutral stance on Iran nuclear compliance vote

HIV, TB, malaria treatment in Kenya threatened by KSh 11.4B funding reduction

HIV, TB, malaria treatment in Kenya threatened by KSh 11.4B funding reduction

Historic moment as South African port hosts the largest-ever container ship

Historic moment as South African port hosts the largest-ever container ship

African countries excluded as China expands visa‑free transit to 55 nations

African countries excluded as China expands visa‑free transit to 55 nations

The role of technology in enhancing speech-language therapy practices

The role of technology in enhancing speech-language therapy practices

After U.S. cuts billions, East African countries steps up to plug budget gaps

After U.S. cuts billions, East African countries steps up to plug budget gaps

Mali strikes gold refining deal with Russia to curb export losses

Mali strikes gold refining deal with Russia to curb export losses

US Africa Command set to welcome new leader as Trump replaces Langley

US Africa Command set to welcome new leader as Trump replaces Langley

Tanzania introduces mandatory travel insurance for foreign visitors

Tanzania introduces mandatory travel insurance for foreign visitors

ADVERTISEMENT