Renaldo Gouws Joins Freedom Front Plus After DA Exit
Former Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Parliament, Renaldo Gouws, has officially joined the Freedom Front Plus (FF+). The move comes after Gouws' departure from the DA last year following controversy surrounding a resurfaced video. Gouws stated that the FF+'s values align with his own "core values and vision for our nation."
FF+ Welcomes Gouws
FF+ leader Dr. Corne Mulder welcomed Renaldo Gouws to the party, emphasizing Gouws’ extensive political experience. This experience includes being a councillor in the Nelson Mandela Bay metro in 2016 and a Member of the National Assembly in 2024. Mulder also noted Gouws' significant social media presence, boasting over 400,000 followers.
Mulder highlighted Gouws’ background as an industrial psychologist. “Popular social media personality and former DA member of parliament has decided to throw his weight behind the FF+." Mulder said Gouws focuses “on finding practical solutions for community development”.
Gouws' Departure from the DA
Gouws' exit from the DA was prompted by the resurfacing of a 2010 video containing racially offensive language. The DA unanimously voted to terminate his membership. Gouws also issued a public apology after complaints were lodged with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).
“I’m proud to announce that I have joined the Freedom Front Plus. This decision wasn’t made lightly. After careful consideration, I’ve found in the Freedom Front Plus a party that truly aligns with my core values and vision for our nation,” Gouws wrote on X.
Analyst Perspectives
Political analyst Piet Croucamp stated Gouws was a natural fit for the FF+, adding, "I almost want to say, what took you so long?" He claimed Gouws never held the constitutional or liberal values of the DA.
Political analyst Rene Oosthuizen said the move underscores the fragility of political affiliations in South Africa. She described the shift as potentially both a benefit and a risk for the FF+.
“On one hand, the party is gaining a figure with significant political experience and knowledge that could strengthen FF+’ strategic position,” Oosthuizen said. “On the other hand, this development risks deepening internal contradictions by associating the party with a controversial figure whose past includes racially insensitive conduct.”
The core values of the Freedom Front Plus include "freedom, self-determination and safeguarding minority rights". Gouws states these values resonate with his own convictions.
