A controversial South African politician central to a row over race relations in the country has been denied entry to the UK. The Home Office said Julius Malema had been deemed "non-conducive to the public good" and that it was "undesirable" to grant him entry. In a letter published by local media outlet News 24, the UK government cited his vocal support for Hamas, including a speech he made after the 7 October attacks in which he said his own party would arm the group if it came into power. The UK also raised his threat to call for the "slaughter of white people" and to "take up arms" as a reason for the rejection. His Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, which came fourth in South Africa's parliamentary election last year, condemned the decision as "cowardice" and said it would stifle democratic debate. Malema featured prominently in a video played last month by President Donald Trump during a visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to the White House. This is the second time Malema has been denied entry to the UK in just two months. The first time the UK government said he had submitted his application too late – this time, a British official in South Africa told the BBC it was a "substantive decision". The UK said he has no right of appeal and was likely to be denied any future applications, according to News 24. Go toBBCAfrica.comfor more news from the African continent. Follow us on Twitter@BBCAfrica, on Facebook atBBC Africaor on Instagram atbbcafrica
South Africa's firebrand politician banned from entering UK
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"UK Denies Entry to South African Politician Julius Malema Over Controversial Remarks"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Julius Malema, a prominent and controversial politician in South Africa, has been denied entry to the United Kingdom due to his inflammatory remarks and actions that the UK Home Office deemed 'non-conducive to the public good.' The decision follows a history of Malema's provocative statements, particularly his support for Hamas and his threats against white individuals in South Africa. In a notable instance, Malema stated that his party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), would arm Hamas if they gained power, which alarmed UK officials. Additionally, the UK government highlighted Malema's call for the 'slaughter of white people' and his readiness to 'take up arms' as critical factors leading to the rejection of his visa application. His party responded fiercely, labeling the UK’s decision as an act of cowardice that undermines democratic discourse and debate in South Africa.
This marks the second time in two months that Malema has faced a ban from entering the UK. Previously, he was denied entry due to a late application, but this latest ruling is based on substantive concerns regarding his public statements and actions. A British official in South Africa indicated that Malema is unlikely to have any right of appeal and may face similar denials for future applications. The EFF, which secured fourth place in the last parliamentary election, has vowed to challenge the implications of this decision on their political activities and the broader implications for freedom of expression in the country. The controversy surrounding Malema has gained international attention, especially following his appearance in a video showcased by former President Donald Trump during a meeting with South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa at the White House, further complicating his political narrative on the global stage.
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