Another nation removes travel ban on EFF’s Julius Malema

Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), is now permitted to enter Zambia after President Hakainde Hichilema ended his seven-year travel ban.

In 2017, former Zambian president Edgar Lungu declared Malema persona non grata for supporting then-opposition leader Hilichema.

JULIUS MALEMA TRAVEL BAN IN ZAMBIA LIFTED

The EFF said Hichilema’s decision is a profound gesture that highlights the spirit of unity and progressivism that is increasingly taking root across Africa.

“With the lifting of this ban, Hichilema has demonstrated his commitment to the ideals of democracy and progress, distancing Zambia from the dictatorial practices of the past.

“The EFF extends its gratitude to president Hichilema and reaffirms its commitment to building a united and progressive Africa,” the party said.

BOTSWANA BAN ALSO LIFTED

Last week, Malema’s travel ban in Botswana was also lifted ahead of the inauguration of the country’s sixth president, advocate Duma Boko.

Boko leads the Umbrella for Democratic Change coalition, which emerged victorious in the recently held elections and dethroned the Botswana Democratic Party, which had been in power for 58 years. 

In 2011, Malema was banned alongside his former deputy Floyd Shivambu and businesswoman Bridgette Radebe, among others.

Malema promised to “overthrow” then-president Ian Khama’s regime in the country. Due to his capacity as ANC Youth League leader, these comments sparked a diplomatic incident.

The former ANC Youth League president labelled Khama’s government as a “puppet regime” and promised to incite a coup through a command team.

Malema was then expelled from the ANC just a few months afterwards.