UK bans South African politician Julius Malema over “Public Good” concerns
The UK has barred Julius Malema, leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), citing his “undesirable” influence on public order. The Home Office rejected his entry, labeling him “non-conducive to the public good” due to his past remarks, including endorsing Hamas and threatening violence against white South Africans.
Malema, whose party ranked fourth in South Africa’s 2024 elections, faced backlash for a 2023 speech vowing to arm Hamas if elected.
The UK also referenced his incendiary racial rhetoric as grounds for the ban. This marks his second denial in two months the first was over a late application.
The EFF condemned the decision as an attack on free speech, calling it “cowardice.” Malema recently gained international attention when former U.S.
President Donald Trump showcased a controversial video of him during South African leader Cyril Ramaphosa’s White House visit.
According to News 24, Malema has no right to appeal and future UK visa requests are likely to be rejected.
The move intensifies debates over balancing security concerns with democratic expression.
