411
Ernst Roets Faces Death Threats After Tucker Carlson Interview
Former AfriForum deputy CEO Dr. Ernst Roets claims he has received death threats following his controversial interview on The Tucker Carlson Show in the United States.
The interview, which covered a range of contentious topics, has intensified divisions within South Africa. While some have praised Roets on social media, others have accused him of spreading misinformation.
Roets took to X (formerly Twitter) to highlight the threats, writing: “Some people are threatening to murder me because of my interview with @TuckerCarlson. In South Africa, a ‘necklace’ is a brutal method of murdering someone.”
He also shared a post from an X user, M. Lephole, who wrote: “@ErnstRoets must be given a beautiful necklace for saying Winnie (Madikizela-Mandela) was a terrorist.”
During his interview with Carlson, Roets discussed the late anti-apartheid activist Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. Carlson described her as a revered figure but claimed she was involved in violent acts.
Roets responded by referencing a controversial statement attributed to Madikizela-Mandela, in which she reportedly said: “With our necklaces and our matches, we will liberate this country.” He explained that “necklacing” was a form of execution where a burning tyre was placed around a victim’s neck. He alleged that she had encouraged such acts, despite initially denying involvement.
Beyond the remarks about Madikizela-Mandela, Roets made other contentious claims, including allegations that South African universities promote “white genocide” and that the government is attempting to seize land.
Madikizela-Mandela, often referred to as the “Mother of the Nation,” passed away on April 2, 2018, after a long illness. She was laid to rest at Fourways Memorial Park.
Roets’ interview has fueled debate, with some defending his statements and others condemning them as inflammatory. The discussion has also drawn attention from figures like South African-born billionaire Elon Musk.
Musk, who has frequently criticized South Africa’s policies, reacted to Roets’ interview by stating that the country’s current direction does not align with Nelson Mandela’s vision.
Musk has been vocal about his opposition to South Africa’s affirmative action policies, which were introduced to address deep-rooted economic inequality. The World Bank has repeatedly identified South Africa as one of the most unequal nations globally.
Roets, who previously served as the head of policy at the Solidarity Movement, recently resigned from his position, stating that he aims to make a “greater contribution” outside the organization.
As debate continues, the fallout from Roets’ interview underscores the deep political and social divides within South Africa.
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
