The Home Office declared him "non-conducive to the public good," citing his support for Hamas and threats of violence against white South Africans. His political party condemned the ruling as an attack on democratic discourse and an attempt to silence dissenting voices.

Julius Malema, the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), was formerly cleared for entry but this latest denial reflects a significant shift. Just weeks ago, Malema appeared in a video presented by President Donald Trump during a meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

This decision is Malema's second consecutive denial, as previously he was rejected for submitting his application late. The UK government has indicated that future applications are unlikely to succeed and that he has no recourse for appeal. The decision has intensified discussions around freedom of speech and race relations in South Africa, with his party branding the denial "cowardice."

As the debate continues, many will be watching how this affects both his party's standing and race relations in South Africa.