Tony Leon, the former leader of South Africa’s Democratic Alliance (DA) and former Ambassador to Argentina, has made it clear that he isn’t actively pursuing the position of South Africa’s next Ambassador to the United States.
This comes after a nomination by DA federal chairperson Helen Zille, who proposed Leon as a potential replacement for Ebrahim Rasool, the recently expelled Ambassador to the US.
Rasool’s Expulsion and Leon’s Critique of His Actions
Rasool’s expulsion came after his virtual remarks about US President Donald Trump during a speech at the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (MISTRA).
His comments, which were critical of Trump and the US government, led to him being declared persona non grata by the United States.
With his diplomatic immunity revoked, Rasool was instructed to leave the country by March 21, 2025.
Upon his return to South Africa, he received a warm welcome at Cape Town International Airport, where he addressed members of the ANC, SACP, and Cosatu.
Tony Leon didn’t hold back his opinions about Rasool’s actions.
Speaking with eNCA, Leon criticized Rasool for stepping beyond the role of a diplomat, suggesting his rally at the airport felt more like an activist’s performance rather than the behavior expected of an ambassador.
“His sentiments were completely outside the norm for a diplomat speaking in a foreign country,” Leon said, adding that the real issue was South Africa’s policies, especially after the Trump administration cut aid funding earlier this year over concerns about land expropriation in South Africa.
Additionally, Trump had controversially offered refuge to Afrikaners in the US, further complicating diplomatic relations.
Leon’s Response to Zille’s Nomination
When asked about the possibility of taking on the Ambassadorial role in Washington, Leon chuckled and expressed his gratitude for the nomination from Helen Zille.
However, he made it clear that he wasn’t actively seeking a new job.
“I’m not seeking a job,” Leon stated, even though he acknowledged the honor of being considered for such a crucial position.
Helen Zille’s Support for Tony Leon
Helen Zille’s nomination of Tony Leon stems from her belief that South Africa urgently needs an effective diplomat in Washington, especially as tensions between the two countries have risen.
During a Human Rights Day commemoration, Zille expressed her concern over South Africa’s strained relationship with the United States, highlighting the importance of appointing someone with the diplomatic skill set to repair the rift.
Zille emphasized that President Trump’s focus on protecting US interests could lead to more strain, and she stressed that South Africa couldn’t afford to alienate America, considering the US is one of South Africa’s largest trade partners.
“If I had to choose, I would choose somebody like Tony Leon,” Zille said, praising Leon’s extensive diplomatic experience, intellectual capacity, and understanding of foreign policy.
She believes Leon’s expertise makes him a strong candidate for the role.
Who is the Ideal Candidate to Replace Rasool?
With the position of South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States now vacant, many are weighing in on the ideal candidate to replace Ebrahim Rasool.
If you have thoughts on who would be the best fit for this important diplomatic role, feel free to share your opinions by leaving a comment or sending a message via WhatsApp.