On the Implications of the Expulsion of SA’s Ambassador from the US

In my opinion, the kicking out of South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool by expelling and declaring him persona non grata was a stunner in the international arena.

Few expected or could have seen the diplomatic curveball. It is quite unusual and the act has very few parallels in history. Rubio’s ‘firing’ of Rasool is unique; it was done on social media (Elon Musk’s X ironically) and surely was aimed at rubbing the humiliation in.

The expulsion will dramatically increase the already high tensions in South Africa-United States relations.

Declaring Rasool persona non grata is a significant diplomatic action that typically occurs under specific circumstances:

• Espionage activities: Engaging in intelligence gathering or actions incompatible with diplomatic status.
• Interference in internal affairs: Involvement in the host country’s domestic politics or actions perceived as undermining its sovereignty.
• Criminal conduct: Participation in illegal activities, such as smuggling or drug trafficking.
• Public statements against the host nation: Making derogatory or inflammatory remarks about the host country’s government or policies.

Rasool was expelled after criticising president Trump and accusing him of white supremacism.

This huge diplomatic fallout was partially precipitated by the South African envoy openly provoking Trump, and I want to believe it was a cleverly calculated move by Ramaphosa to further consolidate international anti-Trump sentiments, thereby leveraging them to navigate the proverbial storm underway since the Republicans took power in January.

The norm in such cases and on the diplomatic principle of recprocity, South Africa (SA) could expel the United States (US) ambassador to express displeasure.

However, Trump still has to appoint one after senate hearings in this regard.

Ramaphosa can also issue a formal protest by lodging a complaint through diplomatic channels or international forums.

Such reciprocal actions can further escalate tensions, leading to deeper fracturing of bilateral relations.

– Pius Dunaiski is a former high commissioner of Namibia to India and writes in his own capacity.