Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has assured that the replacement for expelled South African ambassador to the US, Ebrahim Rasool, will be a qualified and competent individual, chosen based on merit rather than race.
Speaking at a media briefing after the ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Boksburg, Lamola reaffirmed the ANC’s commitment to non-racialism, stating that the party prioritises capability over racial considerations when making diplomatic appointments.
He emphasised that the new ambassador would be someone who meets the necessary requirements to serve effectively in Washington or any other diplomatic post.
Rasool was expelled from the US last week after Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared him persona non grata over remarks he made during a webinar, where he criticised the Trump administration’s alleged ties to white supremacy.
Following his return to Cape Town, ANC deputy secretary-general Nomvula Mokonyane confirmed that the party had received Rasool’s report on the matter.
While acknowledging the unfortunate nature of the situation, she indicated that the ANC was focused on moving forward rather than taking further action against him.
The diplomatic fallout has sparked calls for a reassessment of South Africa’s foreign relations with the US.
Former South African ambassador Tony Leon has urged a “re-evaluation and strategic engagement” with Washington, criticising Rasool’s approach and stressing that ambassadors should strictly adhere to government policy rather than express personal views.
Leon argued that South Africa’s broader foreign policy needs adjustment, suggesting that even a highly skilled diplomat would struggle under the country’s current stance.
He highlighted the need for South Africa to align its policies with its national interests and take a more strategic, less confrontational approach in diplomatic engagements.
Regarding South Africa’s legal action against Israel, Leon expressed scepticism about the potential for diplomacy to mend relations with the US.
He pointed to successful engagements between South African labour leaders and US officials as an example of more effective diplomatic efforts.
He also cautioned against “megaphone diplomacy,” advocating for a more nuanced and solution-driven approach to addressing international disagreements.
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