Roland Schoeman has been widely criticised for his proposal to US podcaster Joe Rogan to discuss the “atrocities” against South Africans, particularly farmers.
The former Olympic swimmer – who is also a naturalised American citizen – has been vocal about his opinions on SA’s “crime, corruption, and government failure”.
After retiring from the sport, the 44-year-old is now a real estate agent based in Arizona.
ROLAND SCHOEMAN ASKS JOE ROGAN FOR PODCAST APPEARANCE
On his X timeline, Roland Schoeman has posted tweet after tweet about racism, crime, and corruption he believes is prevalent in his home country of South Africa.
In many tweets, the swimmer – who was handed a suspension for allegedly doping – tagged US President Donald Trump and Pretoria-born billionaire, both of whom believe there is a “genocide against white people” in SA.
Roland splits his time between SA and the US, where he works as a real estate agent.
One of his most recent tweets has particularly ruffled feathers back home.
Roland tweeted: “Hey Joe Rogan. Would you entertain the idea of hosting a few South Africans to speak of all the atrocities in South Africa that are affecting ALL citizens?”
Again, Roland tagged Trump and Musk, stating that they had also recently “highlighted” his concerns.
In recent weeks, the president and his head of government efficiency have accused SA of promoting “racial discrimination” and “confiscating land” from white South Africans.
Trump has since offered Afrikaners the opportunity to seek asylum in the US.
BACKLASH FROM FELLOW SOUTH AFRICANS
Roland Schoeman’s opinionated tweets have been met with mixed views from South Africans.
While some of his followers have agreed with his stance, others have accused him of spreading misinformation.
Comedian Riaad Moosa responded: “You’re an Olympian. You’re really being VERY selfish about the plight of your ‘own people’ when MOST other people in SA have it WAY worse. You clearly don’t care about all South Africans.
“In fact, if you saw all South Africans as your own people, that would be a step in the right direction. Try to effectively help some black and brown people instead, you’ll see you’ll feel better. Otherwise, go polish your medals or do some laps.”
Images via X:
@ronaldschoeman
Riaad continued: “Stop trying to lie to America. And if you don’t think you’re lying, then the only other conclusion is that in your conception of South Africa, the pain of black and brown people is invisible, and all we are in your mind is an amorphous threat to the true owners of this nation.
Investigative journalist Redi Tlhabi sarcastically added: “Great idea. I’d love to be a panelist on this topic. The South African crime statistics that came out yesterday would also provide rich material for this discussion. The land ownership figures must also feature. Such an inspired idea from Roland. Please do it!”
Meanwhile, sports personality Andile Ncube called out Roland Schoeman for being an “a**,” reminding him that he had nominated himself to be the Minister of Sport in 2021 despite admitting that “you knew nothing.”
He added: “We all knew you weren’t too bright, and now everyone knows.”
Here’s what others had to say…
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON ROLAND SCHOEMAN’S BELIEFS ABOUT SA?
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