Peter de Villiers booted out of politics over sexual misconduct complaint

A South African political party has officially expelled former Springbok head coach Peter de Villiers from its ranks, citing allegations of sexual misconduct that breach the party's constitution and code of conduct.

This decision by the GOOD party also led to de Villiers' removal from his position in the Western Cape legislature, marking a significant fall from grace for the once-celebrated rugby coach turned politician.

The disciplinary action against de Villiers was set in motion following a formal complaint received by the party at the end of January. The allegations detailed in the complaint prompted the suspension of de Viliers and an immediate investigation.

“On January 31, 2024, GOOD received a formal complaint of sexual misconduct against De Villiers. The nature of the allegations warranted his immediate suspension from party activities pending an investigation and formal disciplinary hearing.

“GOOD is a women-led party, with a Constitution containing a set of values to which all members subscribe and account, irrespective of their positions.

“The GOOD Constitution deals comprehensively and unequivocally with gender rights and sexual misconduct. The party is proud of its record of advocacy for the equal rights of women and girls, and against the plague of gender-based violence in South Africa," said a spokesperson for the party.

De Villiers served as the head coach of the Springboks from 2008 to 2011. Under his leadership, South Africa won the Tri-Nations in 2009 and defeated the British and Irish Lions in the same year.

After his tenure with the Springboks, de Villiers continued his coaching career in various capacities. He took on roles with Zimbabwe's national rugby team as their head coach and was involved in coaching at the club level.