Economic Freedom Fighters Member of Parliament Carl Niehaus has publicly hit back at AfriForum’s Head of Policy, Ernst Roets, accusing him of twisting his words and issuing threats.
In a post, Niehaus warned Roets not to “misrepresent” him while challenging him to take up several serious issues.
“Ernst Roets, while you are issuing threats, please inform my political party, the EFF, about what I have said about the racist white supremacist Charlie Kirk — but I warn you, don’t misrepresent me!” Niehaus wrote.
He went further, calling on Roets to take action against Leon Johan Koekemoer, identified as the leader of the Delta Group, who allegedly posted death threats on Facebook targeting EFF Commander-in-Chief Julius Malema and Niehaus himself.
“While you are at it, will you then please also report one Mr. Leon Johan Koekemoer, leader of the Delta Group, who on Facebook issued death threats against the CIC and President of the EFF Julius Malema and myself, to his employer and SAPS?” Niehaus added.
The confrontation appears to have been sparked by a broader debate between Niehaus and Roets over issues of race, land reform, and alleged white supremacy in South Africa. Niehaus, who has been an outspoken critic of white minority capital and what he terms “racist fearmongering,” has previously accused AfriForum of defending apartheid-era privilege.
Roets, on the other hand, has consistently argued that AfriForum is standing up for minority rights and protecting farmers from targeted attacks.
The latest exchange underscores the deepening tensions between political activists, lobby groups, and politicians as South Africa heads into a heated political season.
Niehaus’s public demand for accountability over alleged death threats could put pressure on law enforcement and private employers to investigate online hate speech and threats of violence.
At the time of publication, neither AfriForum nor Roets had publicly responded to Niehaus’s statement. The EFF has not issued an official statement but is expected to back its MP’s call for action.