After a year away from the spotlight, former Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Renaldo Gouws is officially back in politics, this time under the banner of the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus).
The announcement came on Tuesday, marking a notable shift for Gouws, who was once considered one of the DA’s promising young figures.
Expulsion from the DA
Gouws’s exit from the DA was far from quiet.
In September 2024, he was expelled following an investigation by the party’s Federal Legal Commission, which concluded that he had violated multiple sections of the party’s constitution.
The investigation was triggered by the resurfacing of a video from 2010 that reignited public outrage, bringing his past actions under intense scrutiny.
The fallout resulted in Gouws losing not only his standing within the party but also his seat in Parliament.
Joining the Freedom Front Plus
Speaking about his new political home, Gouws said that his move to VF Plus reflects shared values and a common vision for South Africa.
“The VF Plus’s commitment to freedom, self-determination, and the protection of minority rights deeply resonates with my personal convictions,” Gouws said.
“I am honoured to join a party that stands firmly for building a united and prosperous South Africa where every citizen can thrive equally.”
Reflecting on a Challenging Year
Looking back, Gouws acknowledged the turbulence of the past year, describing it as a “difficult but clarifying period.”
He openly discussed the challenges, public scrutiny, and the eventual termination from the DA.
“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,” he wrote on social media.
VF Plus Welcomes New Talent
The Freedom Front Plus welcomed Gouws with open arms, emphasizing that his experience in public service and political communication would strengthen the party.
“We look forward to working with him,” the VF Plus said in a brief statement.
Political Implications
Gouws’s switch is likely to stir debate given the high-profile nature of his departure from the DA.
At the same time, it highlights VF Plus’s strategic efforts to broaden its reach and influence ahead of the next general election.