Renaldo Gouws joins a new political party

Renaldo Gouws, popular social media personality and former Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Parliament, has officially joined the Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus), the party announced on 23 September.

In a statement from FF Plus leader Dr. Corné Mulder, he said that “Gouws’s personal convictions align closely with the party’s core values of freedom, self-determination, and safeguarding minority rights.”

In a statement, Gouws said that “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.”

“Freedom isn’t just a word; it’s the foundation of progress. Self-determination allows us to honour our differences while building unity. And protecting minority rights? That’s the safeguard against the tyranny of the majority, ensuring that every voice, no matter how small, is heard and respected.”

Across social media platforms such as YouTube, Gouws has cultivated a following of over 400,000, where he is known for his commentary on political and social issues in South Africa.

His online presence has highlighted issues including governance, accountability, and community engagement.

Gouws’s integration into the Freedom Front Plus comes at a time when political parties are increasingly seeking to engage citizens directly through social media.

Observers note that Gouws’s political experience, combined with his large social media following, could bring additional visibility to the FF Plus and amplify its messaging.

“The Freedom Front Plus heartily welcomes Gouws into its fold and looks forward to working with him,” said Mulder.

Gouws said that “joining the Freedom Front Plus means I can continue this fight alongside a team that shares my commitment to a united, prosperous South Africa. A South Africa where every citizen, regardless of background, race or culture, can flourish equally.”

Gouws’ history

Academically, Gouws earned a master’s degree in industrial psychology from Nelson Mandela University in 2010. He currently works as a consultant for a prominent company.

During his political career with the Democratic Alliance (DA), Gouws was elected as a councillor in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality in 2016 and subsequently became a member of the National Assembly in 2024.

Gouws was expelled from the party in September 2024 following the resurfacing of a 2010 video in which he used racist language.

The video, which had been deleted from Gouws’s YouTube channel years earlier, was rediscovered in 2024. Gouws alleges that this was long disclosed to the party.

In it, Gouws used derogatory terms directed at Black South Africans while discussing a controversial song, “Kill the Boer”, performed by Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters.

The SAHRC filed a hate speech complaint against Gouws, which was resolved in March 2025 through mediation. He issued a full public apology and participated in two SAHRC-led diversity education sessions.

“It’s been a long year since my time with my previous political party came to an abrupt end in 2024. Many of you know the story, the controversies, the challenges, and ultimately, my termination from the party I once called home,” said Gouws.

“It was a difficult chapter, one that tested my resolve and forced me to reflect deeply on my path in public service. But let me be clear, I am not done with politics and politics clearly isn’t done with me,” said Gouws.