In 2011, South African politician Julius Malema was expelled from the African National Congress (ANC) after a disciplinary hearing found him guilty of bringing the party into disrepute. A key factor in his expulsion was his derogatory remarks against Botswana’s then-President Ian Khama. Malema, then leader of the ANC Youth League, criticized Khama’s government as a “puppet regime” and called for regime change, a position that clashed with both ANC and South African government policies. This led to Malema being banned from entering Botswana, a restriction that would remain until President Duma Boko’s administration lifted the ban in 2024.
Malema’s comments on Botswana’s political leadership in 2011 played a significant role in his expulsion, marking a key moment in his political career. His outspoken criticism of neighboring countries was seen as a direct challenge to diplomatic relations and undermined the ANC’s stance on international policy. This episode contributed to the polarization within the ANC, which eventually led to Malema’s ousting from the party.
Malema’s ban from Botswana became a symbol of the strained relations and his combative political approach. The lifting of the ban by President Duma Boko in 2024 marks a full circle in Malema’s journey and opens new opportunities for diplomatic engagement.
