Pieter Groenewald Resigns from FF Plus Leadership, Cites Ministerial Responsibilities and Need for Fresh Leadership

Minister of Correctional Services and former Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) leader Pieter Groenewald has resigned from all leadership roles within the party, citing the demanding nature of his ministerial duties and the upcoming 2026 local elections.

Groenewald explained his decision during an interview with eNCA, stating, “There are two reasons why I decided not to be available again. The first is the heavy workload of my ministerial position alongside my role as leader of FF Plus—it’s simply too much.”

He also acknowledged the significant time commitment required for the local government elections in 2026, highlighting that these elections demand far more time and attention than national or provincial campaigns.

[ON AIR] Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald has stepped down as Freedom Front Plus leader. Groenewald says he will focus on his position as a minister in the government of national unity. Tune in to #eNCA on channel #DStv403 pic.twitter.com/aOerU0GG2d

— eNCA (@eNCA) March 1, 2025

The former leader emphasized the need for a new generation of leadership within the party, noting the recent appointments of younger members to key roles. “We must make space for the new, upcoming generation of leaders in the Freedom Front Plus,” he said, referring to the appointment of 39-year-old Wouter Wessel as the new chairperson and 41-year-old Michael Groenewald as vice-chairperson.

Groenewald cited the demographic shift in the electorate, with 42% of registered voters in the 2024 elections aged between 18 and 39 years old, as a reason for encouraging youth leadership.

The minister confirmed that the FF Plus supported his decision and revealed that President Cyril Ramaphosa had expressed a desire for him to continue serving as Minister of Correctional Services.

Addressing challenges within the correctional system, including overcrowding, food shortages, and the financial burden of housing foreign prisoners, Groenewald reassured the public that despite these systemic issues, prison escape rates remain low.

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