The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have fiercely condemned the expulsion of South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool by the United States, calling the decision politically motivated and an attack on South Africa’s sovereignty. The move, announced by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has sparked outrage from the EFF, which did not hold back in its criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration.
The Controversial Expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool
Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s ambassador to the United States, was officially declared persona non grata on March 14, 2025. The U.S. State Department accused Rasool of engaging in “race-baiting”—a claim the EFF strongly rejects. According to the party, the expulsion is part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to pressure South Africa into reversing key domestic policies.
The EFF sees this as an escalation in diplomatic tensions, driven by the U.S.’s dissatisfaction with South Africa’s independent stance on global affairs. The party argues that Rasool’s removal is retaliation for South Africa’s refusal to bow to American influence.
Revisiting the 2022 Reuben Brigety Incident
The EFF also referenced a past diplomatic controversy involving former U.S. ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety. In 2022, Brigety accused South Africa of secretly supplying Russia with weapons via a cargo ship that docked in Simon’s Town. When these allegations were later proven false, the South African government chose not to expel Brigety, opting instead to maintain diplomatic ties with the U.S.
The EFF sees a double standard at play, questioning why South Africa did not take a similar stance when false accusations were made against it.
EFF’s Bold Accusations Against Trump
Never one to mince words, the EFF echoed remarks made by Rasool, describing Trump as “the grand wizard of a global Ku Klux Klan dressed up as Make America Great Again (MAGA).” The party claims that Trump’s policies have emboldened far-right groups both in the U.S. and in South Africa, leading to renewed efforts by these factions to exert political influence.
The EFF further criticized the role of South African white supremacist organizations, such as AfriForum and the Solidarity Movement, which they allege have been lobbying the U.S. government to interfere in South Africa’s domestic policies.
U.S. Influence Over South African Policies
According to the EFF, the Trump administration is pressuring South Africa to abandon progressive policies, including:
- The National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill, which aims to provide universal healthcare.
- The Expropriation Bill, which seeks to address historical land injustices.
- The Basic Education Laws Amendment Act (BELA), which focuses on reforms in the education sector.
The party believes that these policies threaten the interests of right-wing groups in both countries, leading to increased foreign interference.
Joel Pollak: The Next U.S. Ambassador?
Adding fuel to the fire, the EFF raised concerns about the possible appointment of Joel Pollak as the next U.S. ambassador to South Africa. Pollak, a former speechwriter for South African politician Tony Leon and a senior figure at Breitbart News, is widely regarded as a right-wing commentator with strong views on immigration and race.
The EFF has outright rejected his potential appointment, vowing to oppose his entry into South Africa should Trump move forward with the nomination.
EFF Calls on Ramaphosa to Stand Firm
In conclusion, the EFF has urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to resist U.S. pressure and stand firm on South Africa’s sovereignty. The party insists that Trump’s “bullying tactics” should not dictate the country’s policies.
While the diplomatic row continues to unfold, it is clear that tensions between the two nations are at an all-time high. Whether this will lead to further diplomatic fallout remains to be seen.
