Roland Schoeman Divides South Africans With Comments on Charlie Kirk's Death
- Roland Schoeman commented on Charlie Kirk’s death, calling violence “barbaric” and urging people not to celebrate it
- South Africans are sharply divided; some agreed with his call for peace, while others criticised him for speaking on a controversial figure
- Schoeman’s history of outspoken remarks made his latest statement another flashpoint for online debate
Former Olympic champion and swimmer Roland Schoeman has found himself at the centre of a social media debate following his comments on the death of US conservative political commentator Charlie Kirk on 10 September 2025.
Source: Getty Images
Kirk, a prominent ally of former President Donald Trump and founder of the youth-focused political organisation Turning Point USA, was shot on Wednesday, 10 September, in an incident that shocked the international community.
Schoeman, who recently opened up about his real estate career, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his thoughts:
"Violence should never be celebrated. Every life lost is a tragedy, no matter who it is. The fact that people cheer for death shows how broken and divided we’ve become. This isn’t justice, it’s barbaric. Rest peacefully, Charlie."
His post drew strong reactions, with netizens sharply divided. Some supported his call for peace, while others criticised him for his comments on a figure they considered controversial.
Look at the post below:
South Africans share their views
@maseko_maphanga:
"The chickens have come home to roost, and that’s not a tragedy. Play stupid games, win stupid prizes."
@GutterWash:
"I don’t like what happened to him. It’s sad and barbaric. However, it’s a lesson to you to be careful and stop your antagonism. There are sick people like the one who killed Charlie who are upset about your daily provocation. Not everyone is politically tolerant like us… ⚠️"
@MissBuffinno:
"What would that lesson be? If you speak the truth, you will be killed?"
@Tumelo_kaThoko:
"Luckily, it was not done in South Africa, otherwise the Bantu or farm murder spiel would be up."
@SimonOliph26414:
"Like Malema, Trump and Elon Musk, I had things I like and some that I don't like about him, but jah to be killed like that for your beliefs 😔 he was still too young to."
@MaxwellModiba:
"Stop breaking and dividing us and expect unity. Unity can never be a one-way street..."
Source: Getty Images
The debate highlights how discussions around politically charged events can quickly divide public opinion, even on issues of life, death, and morality.
Schoeman’s comments show the fine line public figures must navigate when addressing international events that touch on strong political sentiments.
Schoeman’s history of controversial comments
Schoeman has long been a vocal figure in South African public life, often commenting on issues ranging from racial inequality to farm murders. His stance on Malema’s UK visa rejection highlights his deep frustrations with the EFF leader's actions.
The swimmer’s comments about “civilised nations” seemed to be a direct jab at Malema’s reputation, particularly his tendency to promote radical rhetoric, including singing the controversial song Kill the Boer.
Roland Schoeman reacts after Dricus du Plessis’ UFC 319 defeat
Briefly News previously reported that former Olympic champion Roland Schoeman has reacted to the defeat of UFC star Dricus Du Plessis by Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319.
South Africans were left disappointed after Du Plessis was dethroned as the UFC middleweight champion in Chicago early Sunday morning, 17 August.
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Source: Briefly News
