As US-South Africa relations deteriorate, opposition parties challenge President Ramaphosa to resist US influence after the expulsion of Ambassador Rasool, criticizing the decision and calling for a unified response to maintain the country's sovereignty.
South Africa's Opposition Urges Unity Against US Pressure in Diplomatic Dispute
South Africa's Opposition Urges Unity Against US Pressure in Diplomatic Dispute
Political leaders in South Africa rally to protect national sovereignty as tensions escalate following the US expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool.
Opposition parties in South Africa have rallied against the US government's recent expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, urging President Cyril Ramaphosa to stand firm against perceived American bullying. Rasool, who has previously served as an ambassador during the Obama administration, was given 72 hours to leave the US following a declaration by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who labeled him a "race-baiting politician who hates America."
The political climate between the two nations has seen a marked decline since Donald Trump's presidency, with South Africa grappling with diplomatic fallout stemming from contentious issues, including land reform. Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola asserted on SABC that meaningful dialogue is essential, emphasizing the need for face-to-face communication rather than online exchanges.
However, leaders of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) condemned the US stance, labeling Trump as the "orange clown" in the White House, and calling on Ramaphosa to reject any form of intimidation. Contributions from the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) echoed this sentiment, asserting that South Africa maintains the right to govern without external interference.
Recent US actions, including cuts to aid and vocal criticisms aimed at South Africa's land bill and policies affecting the Afrikaner minority, have intensified the friction. Despite Rasool's diplomatic track record, an anonymous South African diplomat suggested that his progressive views may hinder successful relations in the current political atmosphere.
In a broader context, the Democratic Alliance (DA), a partner in the country's governing coalition, expressed concern regarding ANC's dominant control over foreign policy appointments, calling for a more equitable diplomatic representation in response to escalating tensions.
