South African Ambassador Declared Persona Non Grata Following Trump Criticism

South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool has been declared persona non grata by Secretary of State Marco Rubio following his critical remarks about Donald Trump. This decision underscores the escalating tensions in U.S.-South Africa relations, exacerbated by recent U.S. aid cuts and controversial local laws in South Africa.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has declared South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, persona non grata following Rasool’s criticisms of Donald Trump at a recent forum. Rubio characterized Rasool as a “race-baiting politician” and stated, “We have nothing to discuss with him and so he is considered PERSONA NON GRATA.” After expressing his views on the implications of Trump’s policies, Rasool’s remarks prompted the decision to expel him from the country.

Rasool, who previously served in the same capacity during the Obama administration, participated in a panel organized by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, where he discussed Trump’s political influence and its repercussions. His assertions connected Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan with a broader global movement appealing to the insecurities of white populations. The ambassador claimed, “It may not be true, it may not make sense, but that is not the dog whistle that is being heard in a global, white base.”

The relationship between the U.S. and South Africa has substantially deteriorated since the Trump administration’s beginnings, highlighted by recent cuts to U.S. aid directed towards South Africa. Notably, the Trump administration halted assistance following South Africa’s accusations of Israeli genocide at the International Court of Justice and the country’s controversial land expropriation law, which has faced U.S. criticism for being discriminatory. Furthermore, South Africa plans to increase domestic health spending while reducing aid allocations from the U.S., amidst dealing with a significant HIV population cared for in part through American support.

The expulsion of South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool marks a significant decline in diplomatic relations between the United States and South Africa. Rubio’s declaration reflects a strong political stance against criticisms of the U.S. administration. As the two nations navigate strained relations, the implications of funding cuts and contentious policies appear increasingly relevant in their bilateral interactions.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk