The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has welcomed the expulsion of Renaldo Gouws from Parliament and the Democratic Alliance (DA), labeling him a “notorious hate speech peddler.”
“COSATU is pleased that the DA heeded our call to remove this aging juvenile from the Legislature,” said Matthew Parks, COSATU’s Parliamentary Coordinator.
“Cheer leaders for racial violence have no space in Parliament in a democratic South Africa.”
Gouws’ expulsion comes after DA Leader John Steenhuisen removed Roman Cabanac, another figure linked to racial incitement, as his Chief of Staff.
Parks emphasised that political parties must show sensitivity to society, particularly Black South Africans’ lived trauma, and humility to self-correct when they err.
COSATU also urged the DA to demonstrate sensitivity towards the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act, recognizing its importance in promoting oversight and addressing racial disparities in education.
Parks stressed that protecting a non-racial, non-sexist South Africa requires collective effort and daily commitment.
“We must reject merchants of hatred on social media and public platforms.
Government must apply the Prevention and Combatting of Hate Speech and Crimes Act with ruthless efficiency, added Parks.
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