South African MP Julius Malema Banned Entry UK Twice Over Hamas Support, Threats

South African opposition MP Julius Malema has been denied entry to the UK by the Home Office, which described him as "non-conducive to the public good" and cited his vocal support for Hamas and statements suggesting the potential slaughter of white people in South Africa as reasons. Malema's Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party condemned the decision as "cowardice" and accused the UK of distorting his views on social and economic frustrations in South Africa, emphasizing their commitment to revolutionary beliefs and support for oppressed peoples, including Palestinians. Malema was prominently featured in a video played by President Donald Trump during a visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to the White House, where Trump highlighted Malema’s songs perceived as inciting violence against Afrikaners. The UK government indicated this is Malema's second denial of entry in two months, with no right of appeal and likely future visa refusals. South Africa's Supreme Court of Appeal has ruled that Malema's controversial lyrics do not constitute hate speech but are a provocative means to address land and economic injustices. The UK Home Office's decision has sparked debate over democratic expression and race relations in South Africa and beyond.