Ernst Roets accused of ‘policing’ free speech

Afrikaner activist, Dr Ernst Roets, has come under fire on social media after announcing an investigation into South Africans who publicly celebrated the death of American political commentator Charlie Kirk.

Roets, through his think tank and advocacy group Lex Libertas, says the probe will focus on individuals accused of using Kirk’s death to incite violence or promote racial hatred.

The former Deputy CEO of lobby group AfriForum, added that those found guilty should be identified and reported to their employers, where they could face consequences, including possible disciplinary action.

We are investigating people in South Africa that are celebrating and inciting death and violence on social media. We will submit the relevant information to their employers. If you have information to share, write to us at veldtogte@lexlibertas.org.za. pic.twitter.com/6DUHGpIacQ

— Ernst Roets (@ErnstRoets) September 16, 2025

Charlie Kirk, a prominent ally of US President Donald Trump, was shot and killed last week at Utah Valley University.

He was widely known for promoting Trump’s agenda, among young voters, often using inflammatory rhetoric on issues such as gender and immigration.

A 22-year-old American, Tyler Robinson, has been identified as the alleged shooter. Kirk was 31.

Some South Africans on social media, say Roets actions amount to an infringement on freedom of expression.

Who died and made this grifter the Mourning Police of South Africa? We cannot have this sort of nonsense become a thing. A se mo States mo. We have proper free speech here. South Africa, you can pretty much say what you feel & no RW grifter will stop you. As long as it isn’t Hate… https://t.co/2QRcszvF8N

— Phumzile Van Damme (@zilevandamme) September 17, 2025

Who do you think you are? You are not important. Sit down. Ernst Roets wokunuka https://t.co/KPNsaF7lWo

— Null_And_Void (@ItsNathi_Costa) September 18, 2025

Ernst roets is such an idiot he thinks our labour laws can actually allow you to fire workers for having an opinion. Try that nonsense you will go bankrupt at CCMA. https://t.co/UGxbTqD0Ay

— Patriot 🇿🇦 (@PatrioticNews24) September 17, 2025

Roets’ move comes amid a broader crackdown by Charlie Kirk’s supporters in the US, who have targeted prominent figures expressing dissenting views about the late political commentator.

In one high-profile case, TV host Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show was taken off the air after he made controversial remarks about the 31-year-old.

Earlier this week, Kimmel accused President Donald Trump and his allies of exploiting Kirk’s assassination for political gain.

While Trump welcomed ABC’s decision to pull the show, some social media users have criticised the move as an attempt to police freedom of speech.

Kirk’s death has sparked a wide range of reactions on social media, as his legacy and controversial political and religious views come under renewed scrutiny.

While some have mourned his passing, others have used the moment to highlight his views on Black women, men, and civil rights—views that many argue stood in direct opposition to the freedoms celebrated by most Americans.

You can’t expect sympathy when you cheer the killing of innocent children and women in Gaza. Good riddance Chalie Kirk. Rest in hell#CharlieKirk

pic.twitter.com/xaQGd6LzgP

— Muhammad Umar (@UmarFerozpuria) September 11, 2025

Politics is no excuse for cruelty. At the end of the day, Charlie Kirk is someone’s husband, someone’s father. Today’s act was sick and cannot be justified.

Praying for Charlie Kirk and his family#ChalieKirk pic.twitter.com/n02If4TBlj

— TheDuke™️ (@Theworldduke) September 10, 2025

You can’t expect sympathy when you cheer the killing of innocent children and women in Gaza. Good riddance Chalie Kirk. Rest in hell#CharlieKirk pic.twitter.com/k2OuGQxXIL

— Soft Spoken🔻 (@softspoken04) September 10, 2025