Petrus Johannes "Pieter" Groenewald, born on 27 August 1955, is a seasoned South African politician currently leading the Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) since his election in November 2016. His journey in politics began with his election as Mayor of Stilfontein in 1988. However, he resigned from this position in 1989 following his election to the South African House of Assembly.

Studies

Groenewald's academic credentials include a B.luris degree from Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, along with a Postgraduate Diploma in Communications, a Master's in Management and Development, and a Doctorate in Politics.

Founding of Freedom Front Party

In 1994, Groenewald co-founded the Freedom Front, a party advocating minority rights and pro-Afrikaner nationalism. He was elected to the National Assembly in the same year and served as a Member of Parliament until 1999 when he was elected to the North West Provincial Legislature. In 2001, he returned to the National Assembly.

Holding various leadership roles within the FF Plus, Groenewald was the Parliamentary Leader and Federal Chairperson from August 2011 until November 2016, and the Provincial Leader in the North West from March 1994 to March 2017.

Groenewald's ascent to the leadership of the FF Plus in November 2016 marked a new chapter for the party. He succeeded Pieter Mulder, with Advocate Anton Alberts taking over as Federal Chairperson.

Increased Successes

Under Groenewald's leadership, the FF Plus achieved significant electoral success in the 2019 general elections. The party increased its national vote share to 2.38%, securing ten seats in the National Assembly, the highest since its inception. Additionally, the FF Plus gained representation in eight of the nine provincial legislatures, with notable improvements in Gauteng and the North West provinces. Groenewald's son, Michal, also contributes to the party's efforts as an MP for the FF Plus.