Controversial South African opposition politician Renaldo Gouws has been suspended by his party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), less than a week after being sworn in as a member of parliament. The suspension follows the resurfacing of videos, made approximately 15 years ago, in which Gouws is seen using racist language against black people.

Initially, there was suspicion that one of the videos might be fake. However, the DA issued a statement on Thursday confirming the video’s authenticity. The party condemned Gouws’ comments, stating that they do not reflect the organisation’s values. Gouws will face disciplinary charges before the party’s federal legal commission.

Additionally, South Africa’s Human Rights Commission has announced it will be pursuing legal action against Gouws in the Equality Court.

This controversy emerges as the DA has joined forces with the African National Congress in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s newly formed government of national unity.