Opposition parties in South Africa are urging President Cyril Ramaphosa not to be pushed around by the United States. This comes after the US expelled Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, giving him just 72 hours to leave the country. The State Department labeled him as unwelcome, with Secretary Marco Rubio calling Rasool a “race-baiting politician who hates America.”
Relations between South Africa and the US have been tense for several years. This strain began during Donald Trump’s presidency, which was marked by increasingly public criticism of South Africa’s policies, particularly regarding land reform. Trump has challenged South Africa’s land reform bill, which allows the government to seize land without compensation in certain situations, claiming it discriminates against white Afrikaners.
In response to the expulsion, South African officials are calling for direct communication rather than “Twitter diplomacy.” Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola emphasized the need for face-to-face discussions to resolve issues.
Political reactions vary across the spectrum. Julius Malema’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party sharply criticized the US, urging Ramaphosa to stand firm against “the orange clown in the White House.” The Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) also condemned the US move, asserting that South Africa should govern itself free of outside interference.
Rasool served as the US ambassador to South Africa from 2010 to 2015 under President Barack Obama and returned to the position in 2024. Despite his experience and connections, securing meetings with Trump proved difficult. One unnamed South African diplomat remarked that Rasool’s history, particularly regarding pro-Palestinian politics, may have made his role challenging.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), which is part of South Africa’s governing coalition, questions why the African National Congress (ANC), the largest party, has such control over foreign diplomacy. DA spokesperson Willie Aucamp suggested that allowing broader representation in foreign policy could help ease tensions with the US.
Recent data shows that public sentiments toward international relations in South Africa are shifting. A recent survey indicates that 65% of South Africans believe the government should prioritize national interests when dealing with foreign powers. This changing attitude reflects a growing desire for autonomy in the country’s international dealings.
As South Africa navigates this diplomatic challenge, the situation serves as a reminder of how global dynamics continue to affect local policies and governance. It highlights the importance of having open, respectful communication in international relations and maintaining sovereignty in decision-making.
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