Amid Controversy Over MKP Membership
Reporter:- George April
CAPE TOWN:- Former Springbok coach Peter de Villiers is set to appear in the Malmesbury Regional Court as his case of sexual assault and crimen injuria continues.
The case has drawn renewed public attention following his recent political move to the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), despite facing serious allegations.
Patricia Lopez (59), the woman accusing de Villiers of sexual misconduct, has expressed her outrage over MKP’s decision to welcome him into their ranks. She initially came forward with allegations last year, claiming de Villiers attempted to pin her down, kiss her, and throw her onto a bed while they were both members of the GOOD Party.
De Villiers was expelled from the GOOD Party on March 25, 2024, following an internal investigation that found him guilty of violating the party’s code of conduct. Shortly afterward, he joined MKP, with reports confirming his new political allegiance in January 2025. His affiliation with MKP, particularly alongside the party’s deputy president, John Hlophe, has sparked controversy and criticism, with many questioning the party’s stance on gender-based violence.
Lopez has reiterated her disappointment, stating that political parties often speak against gender violence but fail to act when their own members are implicated. She also criticized the continued public and political support for de Villiers while his case remains unresolved in court.
Meanwhile, de Villiers has remained largely silent on the allegations, declining to comment publicly. However, in a previous podcast interview, he stated that he was welcomed warmly into MKP and believed he had found the right political home.
The upcoming court proceedings will be closely watched, as they not only determine de Villiers’ legal fate but also raise broader questions about political accountability and how allegations of sexual misconduct are handled within South African politics.
De Villiers is due back in the Malmesbury Magistrates’ Court next month, where the case is expected to progress further.
As the legal proceedings against de Villiers continue, the situation underscores the ongoing challenges in addressing and preventing sexual misconduct, in both political and social spheres.
