South African podcaster Penuel Mlotshwa, widely known as Penuel The Black Pen, has publicly clarified his past association with AfriForum following online backlash.
“I Left Two Years Ago”
Penuel confirmed that although he was once a paying member, he left the organisation two years ago.
Why He Joined
He explained that his initial decision to join was based on AfriForum’s work in:
- Service delivery initiatives
- Private security in communities
- Skills development and tertiary support
- Efforts to hold government accountable
- Legal support in cases such as that of Senzo Meyiwa
Why He Walked Away
However, he says his stance changed when he began to disagree with the organisation’s direction, particularly:
- What he described as false narratives about South Africa
- Claims around farm murders
- The interpretation of the phrase “Kill the Boer”
Penuel says these issues led him to distance himself, adding that he has addressed them in past content.
Responding to EFF Criticism
His statement comes after accusations that his criticism of the EFF was influenced by his former ties to AfriForum.
He rejected this, saying his views are independent:
“I’ll credit the EFF when they do well and bash them when they flop.”












