Britain blocked Julius Malema from entering the country on Wednesday. The Economic Freedom Fighters leader cannot visit because officials worry about his political views. UK authorities said his support for Hamas creates public safety concerns.
The Home Office sent Malema a letter explaining their decision. Officials pointed to his backing of groups Britain considers terrorist organizations. Malema has called Hamas attacks against Israel legitimate resistance efforts. He also supported armed struggles by Hamas and Hezbollah during April 2024.
British immigration officers also cited Malema's past comments about racial violence. The politician once said his party was not calling for white people to be killed at least for the moment. He later told a court judge he could not promise to avoid such statements in future situations.
The visa denial letter said Malema's behavior makes him unwelcome in Britain. His conduct and associations violate UK immigration rules about terrorist support and racial hatred. Future visa requests will likely face rejection unless he changes his public positions.
Malema previously traveled to Britain without problems. The recent review of his statements led to the current ban. Officials said he has no right to appeal their final decision.
The Home Office sent Malema a letter explaining their decision. Officials pointed to his backing of groups Britain considers terrorist organizations. Malema has called Hamas attacks against Israel legitimate resistance efforts. He also supported armed struggles by Hamas and Hezbollah during April 2024.
British immigration officers also cited Malema's past comments about racial violence. The politician once said his party was not calling for white people to be killed at least for the moment. He later told a court judge he could not promise to avoid such statements in future situations.
The visa denial letter said Malema's behavior makes him unwelcome in Britain. His conduct and associations violate UK immigration rules about terrorist support and racial hatred. Future visa requests will likely face rejection unless he changes his public positions.
Malema previously traveled to Britain without problems. The recent review of his statements led to the current ban. Officials said he has no right to appeal their final decision.
