Renaldo Gouws, recently appointed as a Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Parliament, has become the centre of controversy after a video from over 15 years ago resurfaced.
Renaldo Gouws old ‘racist’ clip resurfaces
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In the video, Gouws made inflammatory remarks about Africa, suggesting that if the continent “disappeared off the face of the earth, no one would f* notice.”
This video has ignited public outrage, with at least 15,000 people signing a petition demanding his removal from Parliament.
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The petition argues that his remarks could negatively influence the nation and promote regressive racial attitudes.
“For South Africa to continue its forward momentum and further establish its democratic values, it is crucial to nip such regressions in the bud. Therefore, the Parliament of South Africa must scrutinise the membership of individuals like Mr Renaldo Gouws whose actions cause division and discord.
“We implore the Parliament of South Africa to reconsider the membership of Mr Renaldo Gouws and set a strong precedent against racism. Let’s press for a Parliament that is truly representative of our democratic values and aspirations. Please sign this petition to make a stand against racism and division in our polity,” the petition reads.
Fact-checking Renaldo’s comments about Afric
Gouws’ statement that Africa could disappear without anyone noticing is both factually and historically inaccurate.
Africa is the second-largest continent in both size and population, with over 1.2 billion people.
It is rich in natural resources, such as minerals and oil, which are crucial to the global economy.
Furthermore, Africa is culturally and historically significant, being the cradle of humanity and home to diverse cultures and civilizations.
Economically, African countries are increasingly becoming important players in global markets, making any suggestion of its insignificance deeply flawed and misleading.
Who is Renaldo Gouws? – Five things to know about new DA MP
Political Background and Rise
Renaldo Gouws was born on 2 May 1983, in Uitenhage, Eastern Cape.
He began his political career with the DA in 2012, starting as the branch chairperson of Ward 2 in Nelson Mandela Bay.
He was elected to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Council in 2016 and served as the spokesperson for Economic Development, Tourism, and Agriculture.
Education and Early Life
Gouws attended Hoërskool Brandwag and later studied at Nelson Mandela University, obtaining a Master’s Degree in Industrial Psychology in 2010.
His background as an Industrial Psychologist has influenced his approach to politics and governance.
Controversial YouTube Presence
Gouws started a YouTube channel in 2009, where he frequently shared his views on South African politics and current events.
His channel gained notoriety for its controversial content, which has occasionally led to accusations of racism.
In 2020, he faced backlash for videos reacting to the “Kill the Boer” song used by the EFF.
Role in the Andile Lungisa Jug Incident
In 2016, Gouws filmed a violent incident in the Nelson Mandela Bay Council where Andile Lungisa attacked a fellow councillor with a glass jug.
The footage he captured contributed to Lungisa’s conviction for grievous bodily harm.
Recent Political Appointment
Gouws was recently sworn in as an MP for the DA, a move that has been overshadowed by the resurfacing of his old video.
Despite the backlash, the DA has yet to publicly address the controversy in detail.
