Clement Manyathela speaks with Chrispin Phiri, Spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, about the expulsion of South Africa’s ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool.

Rasool was expelled just two months after arriving in Washington.

Phiri explains that the department was initially informed of Rasool's expulsion through a social media announcement, followed by the official diplomatic process.  He notes that this is the United States' preferred method: to first make the announcement on social media, and then communicate through diplomatic channels.

"Public diplomacy has taken a completely different shape now," he says.

He goes on to explain that the next step is to recall Rasool, which has already been done. Rasool is expected to debrief President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President, providing a detailed account of the situation, including the American perspective and his own recommendations for moving forward.

"We do feel that we need the highest level of representation in the United States, so we will be sending a representative," Phiri adds.

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