Andries Nel Tipped to Succeed Ebrahim Rasool as South Africa’s Ambassador to the US
South Africa is watching the African National Congress veteran Andries Nel as the leader in the next U.S. ambassador after Ebrahim Rasool’s expulsion last week. Nel is the country’s deputy minister of justice – a role that has been held since 2009. According to sources, he is a respected figure within the ANC, with a measure of issues and an undisputed approach – Pretoria is now seeking a stable relationship. Rasool was removed from office after he severed criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump at a webinar prompted U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to accuse racial bait. While South Africa’s coalition members undoubtedly want to express their opinions when appointing a new ambassador, the final decision ultimately depends on Cyril Ramaphosa.
source: Traffic lights
