Expelled South African ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool is set to return to Cape Town on Sunday, expressing no regrets over his abrupt departure.
Rasool was declared persona non grata by the US on Friday following remarks he made about the Trump administration during a dialogue, which angered US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
This was Rasool’s second posting as ambassador to Washington. Unlike his previous tenure under Barack Obama’s administration, this stint lasted less than two months, ending with an order to leave by Friday. His diplomatic immunities and privileges in the US will officially expire on Monday, March 17, 2025.
In a text message to family and friends, Rasool and his wife, Rosieda, confirmed they were packed and ready to return home. “We bid farewell to the US with no regrets—it is what it is,” the message read.
Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya stated that instead of dwelling on the situation, the focus should now be on rebuilding relations with the US.
“Ambassador Rasool is an experienced diplomat. He will have time to reflect on his tenure and the circumstances that led to this outcome,” Magwenya said.
Meanwhile, the Department of International Relations has already begun the process of selecting a replacement.
