Opposition Urges South Africa to Resist US Pressure Amid Ambassador Controversy

Following the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool by the US, South African opposition parties have rallied against perceived American bullying, urging President Cyril Ramaphosa to assert the nation's sovereignty in foreign relations.

South Africa's political landscape has been shaken after the United States announced the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, giving him just 72 hours to leave the country. This move was precipitated by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio labelling Rasool a "race-baiting politician who hates America." In response, multiple opposition factions are calling on President Cyril Ramaphosa to assert the nation's independence and not be swayed by US actions.

Ronald Lamola, South Africa's Minister of International Relations, suggested that diplomacy should not be conducted through social media but rather through direct dialogue. However, the pointed remarks from opposition figures paint a stark picture of the tensions between the two nations. Julius Malema's Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) denounced the US, urging Ramaphosa to resist "bullying" from what they termed "the orange clown" in the White House.

APA Pooe, Secretary General of the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), echoed these sentiments, condemning the US decision as a violation of South Africa's sovereignty. He insisted that the nation is not a puppet of the United States and deserves the autonomy to govern itself free from foreign pressures.

This tense situation arises amid ongoing controversies surrounding South Africa's land reform policy, which has drawn the ire of President Donald Trump. The US leader has previously cut aid to South Africa, claiming discrimination against the white Afrikaner minority—a claim the South African government vehemently denies.

Rasool, who previously held the ambassadorial post during Barack Obama's presidency, was appointed again in 2024. Despite his extensive experience and connections, he has struggled to secure meetings with Trump due to his outspoken pro-Palestine stance. An anonymous South African diplomat noted that Rasool's political history may hinder his effectiveness in the current political climate.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has criticized the African National Congress (ANC) for monopolizing foreign diplomatic appointments despite holding only a minority of government seats. They have called for a more inclusive approach to foreign policy, highlighting the need for a collaborative effort to mend relations with Washington.

As South Africa navigates these turbulent diplomatic waters, the resolve of its leaders and the unified voice of the opposition will play a critical role in determining how the nation responds to external pressures.