Julius Malema Denied UK Visa for Cambridge Conference, EFF Leader Cries Foul

EFF Leader’s Last-Minute Visa Rejection Sparks Controversy

Julius Malema, the fiery leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has been denied a visa to attend a prestigious conference at the University of Cambridge, triggering accusations of political interference.

The outspoken politician was scheduled to speak at the Cambridge Africa Together Conference on Saturday, 10 May – an event renowned for fostering critical discussions on African affairs. However, British immigration authorities rejected his visa application just hours before his planned departure from OR Tambo International Airport.

Malema’s Strong Reaction

Taking to social media platform X, Malema lambasted the decision as “unacceptable and spineless,” alleging it was an attempt to silence his political views. “It is clear to me that this is an attempt to silence a dissenting political perspective,” he wrote.

The EFF leader claimed UK authorities had previously assured him the matter would be resolved by 15:30 on the day of travel, making the last-minute denial particularly frustrating.

UK Response and Previous Travel Bans

UK High Commissioner to South Africa Antony Phillipson offered an apology, citing recent public holidays and administrative delays as reasons for the visa processing issues. The UK Home Office declined to comment on the specific case, maintaining its policy of confidentiality regarding individual applications.

This isn’t Malema’s first encounter with travel restrictions. Botswana imposed a ban in 2011 following controversial remarks about then-President Ian Khama’s government, only lifting it in November 2024 after leadership changes.

Political Implications

Malema’s absence from the Cambridge conference is particularly notable given his vocal criticism of Western influence in Africa and his significant role in South African politics. The EFF has accused the UK High Commission of intentionally obstructing their leader’s participation.

The incident has reignited debates about visa transparency and whether political considerations influence such decisions.

Source: The South African