CAPE TOWN (BG) – Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool has returned to South Africa following his expulsion from the United States.

His departure followed remarks in which he described former President Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” movement as “white supremacist.”

He was declared persona non grata by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Welcomed by a large crowd at Cape Town International Airport, Rasool, the outspoken diplomat, said he has no regrets about his removal.

“We still come here and say we must revolt and … reset the relationship with America,” Rasool told the crowd.

Speaking to the gathering, Rasool said it was not his choice to return, but he stood by his statements. He stressed South Africa should not allow the U.S. to dictate its international alliances or foreign policy.

He added that while he values ties with the U.S., he believes those ties must be redefined on South Africa’s terms. Rasool also said he does not plan to return to diplomatic service.

Earlier this week, President Cyril Ramaphosa said he expects a full report from the expelled ambassador.