South African music executive Nota Baloyi has publicly apologized after the U.S. Department of State revoked his visa, following a controversial tweet perceived as mocking Americans grieving the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
In a detailed statement, Nota expressed regret for the timing and tone of his message but firmly rejected any suggestion that he celebrated Kirk’s passing. He described the backlash as exaggerated, particularly in light of the U.S. government’s visa revocation announcement.
“I sincerely apologize to anyone who found my post insensitive or inappropriate,” Nota stated. “The reactions I received-fewer than ten comments-seem to have been influenced by the State Department’s decision to cancel visas of individuals accused of trivializing the incident. I categorically deny any intention or implication of such disrespect. The post has since been removed.”
The U.S. authorities initially accused Nota of ridiculing Americans mourning Kirk’s death, asserting that the country is under no obligation to welcome foreigners who express hostility toward its citizens.
However, Nota maintained that his remarks were misunderstood and stressed his condemnation of all violence, whether racial, political, or otherwise.
“I strongly denounce acts of violence like the brutal killing of a Ukrainian refugee on the DC Metro,” he said. “I also reject the racist backlash against African men triggered by the distressing images circulating in the media. Furthermore, I condemn political violence, having personally faced credible threats to my life during my last visit to the U.S. in 2023.”
Nota identified himself as a Christian with conservative values and voiced his support for former President Donald Trump, stating he would have voted for Trump in every election since 2016 if he were an American citizen.
“As a proponent of free speech, much like Charlie Kirk, and a conservative Christian, I have been a steadfast supporter of President Trump from day one. Were I a U.S. citizen, I would have cast my vote for him in 2016, 2020, and 2024-and possibly in 2028, should constitutional amendments permit,” he affirmed.
Despite his apology, Nota challenged the fairness of the visa cancellation, labeling the decision as unwarranted.
“That said, I do not always align with Charlie Kirk or Donald Trump, which is why I contest this ruling. I trust that due process will allow for a review and potential reversal,” he added.
The U.S. Department of State has yet to announce whether Nota’s visa status will be reconsidered. This incident has sparked renewed discussions about free speech, responsibility, and the boundaries of expression for foreign nationals within the United States.
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