South African music executive Nhlamulo “Nota” Baloyi hit a roadblock. The US Department of State canceled Nota Baloyi’s US visa due to a social media post about Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Consequently, Baloyi, known for bold views, faced backlash for comments that seemed to mock the conservative activist’s death.
US Targets Kirk Comments
The US government moved fast. It canceled visas for several foreigners, including those implicated in cases like Nota Baloyi US visa revocation, after appearing to support Kirk’s killing. Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, died in a Utah campus shooting last month. For instance, officials stated, “The United States has no obligation to host foreigners who wish death on Americans.”
Moreover, Baloyi’s X post surfaced in a State Department thread. It read: “Neanderthals can’t have their cake and eat it… They went anti-black racist, and now they’re hurt that the racist rally ended in attempted martyrdom. Charlie Kirk won’t be remembered as a hero.” Authorities labeled it mockery. Thus, Nota Baloyi visa revoked places him among six flagged cases, alongside nationals from Paraguay, Brazil, Germany, Argentina, and Mexico.
Baloyi’s Apology and Defense
Baloyi removed the post and expressed regret. He said, “I apologize to anyone who felt hurt by my words.” Additionally, he clarified, “I never intended to make light of the incident.”
Furthermore, he denies celebrating the death. Instead, Baloyi argues right-wing South Africans targeted him. “They see me as an enemy to their non-existent white genocide cause,” he explained. He believes his fame singled him out and led to his US visa troubles.
History of Bold Statements
This isn’t Baloyi’s first clash. Earlier, he called white people “inferior” on a podcast. As a result, the South African Human Rights Commission probed him for hate speech. Baloyi apologized, pledging growth. He fled past political threats, condemns violence, and supports free speech, even backing Donald Trump.
Plans to Move Forward
Baloyi stays optimistic. He plans to reapply. “I’ll get another visa,” he stated. With US gigs set for February, the revocation of Nota Baloyi US visa won’t stop him. He seeks a business visa to expand work.
Ultimately, this case fuels debate over free speech for non-citizens. Baloyi calls it unfair. South Africans follow as he tackles this hurdle. Nota Baloyi visa revoked highlights tensions between expression and borders.
