International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola said the correct diplomatic processes were not followed regarding Ebrahim Rasool's expulsion. Lamola was addressing ANC members in Moretele in North West yesterday, where he also criticised the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, for announcing the expulsion on X.

DIPLOMATIC PROCESSES NOT FOLLOWED

Yesterday, Lamola said that as a country, they always emphasise more diplomatic channels of engagement; those are the most important channels that countries have always worked with. "But there is a reality that has emerged in recent times because of social media. Now, there are different platforms of diplomatic engagement because of social media. As South Africa, we will continue to maintain the lines of communication because we know that when an ambassador has committed something that the host country believes is wrong, the first process is to dematch him, call him, and engage him, but we will comply with that process, and that's why I'm saying we will look into all the processes of transition and look into all processes of engagement with Washington, and there are some issues that we will raise, obviously, behind closed doors that don't continue to sit well with," he said. The minister added that he believed that America also has issues to raise with South Africa that don't sit well with them. "We believe that the relationship between South Africa and America remains strategic and needs to be maintained,' added Lamola.

GIVEN THREE DAYS TO LEAVE AMERICA

In a statement yesterday, the US Department of State said it will no longer recognise Rasool as a member of the mission as of tomorrow. "His privileges and immunities will cease. He and his dependent are required to depart the United States no later than March 21. Further, Ambassador Rasool is considered unacceptable for future accreditation as a member of the South African mission to the United States," the statement said. The department went on to say Raasool's remarks on President Donald Trump were offensive and made it impossible for the US government to continue engaging with him. He was declared persona non grata by Rubio following comments about President Donald Trump and the Make America Great Again movement. Runio called Rasool a race-baiting Trump hater.