UK Denies Julius Malema Visa Over Hamas Support, Extremism

The United Kingdom has formally denied a visa to South African opposition leader Julius Malema, citing his public support for the banned terrorist organization Hamas and remarks inciting racial violence. The UK Home Office stated Malema's presence is "not conducive to the public good" due to his extremist views, including calls for the "slaughter of white people" and support for armed resistance by Hamas and Hezbollah. This marks the second time in two months that Malema has been refused entry, with the Home Office emphasizing that future visa applications are unlikely to succeed unless he changes his stance. The refusal letter references Malema's controversial statements at rallies and on social media, including endorsing the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel as a legitimate act of resistance. The UK government highlighted Malema's refusal to commit to refraining from hateful rhetoric during a 2022 South African Equality Court hearing as part of a pattern of unacceptable behavior. The decision is final with no right of appeal or administrative review, underscoring the UK's firm stance against granting entry to individuals promoting terrorism and racial hatred.