Minister Lamola Announces Merit-Based Selection for New Ambassador to the US

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has assured that the replacement for the expelled South African ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, will be a qualified and capable individual chosen based on merit, regardless of race.

Speaking after the ANC NEC meeting over the weekend, Lamola emphasized that the ANC is a non-racial organization, and the selection process for the new ambassador would focus on finding the best candidate for the role.

Rasool, who was expelled by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and declared “persona non grata,” faced repercussions following his remarks in a webinar where he criticized the Trump administration’s ties to white supremacy.

Responding to questions about whether the new ambassador should be white or black, Lamola reaffirmed that the ANC’s non-racial stance would guide the decision-making process. “We are going to look for a capable South African who meets the constitutional requirements for the role,” he stated.

Nomvula Mokonyane, the ANC deputy secretary-general, confirmed that the party had received Rasool’s report on his expulsion. However, she clarified that no further actions would be taken, as government processes had been followed, and the focus is now on strengthening South Africa’s diplomatic representation moving forward.

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Sourced:African Insider