Politician Carl Niehaus has slammed Twitter trolls who targeted his girlfriend and their 10-year-old daughter.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Niehaus said the trolls “cast aspersions” on the nature of his relationship with his girlfriend Benie because she is black and much younger than him.
Niehaus, who is the spokesperson of ANC’s uMkhonto we Sizwe Military Veterans Association (MKMVA), is 59 years old while Benie is 23.
The trolls similarly picked on the fact that their daughter is black and he is white, he added.
Niehaus wrote, “To those pathetic hypocrites who have launched these attacks on two very special, lovely, decent and warm hearted women, I say shame on you!”
Birthday wishes
It all started last week when Niehaus shared images of himself, Benie and their daughter Khanya on Twitter to wish them a happy birthday. Their birthdays fell on 4 and 5 October.
However, to his “utter dismay,” there were negative replies. “I responded strongly and defended their honour, and the love that we share,” he explained.
Nevertheless, Niehaus said he felt compelled to delete the images from Twitter “to protect the two beautiful and special ladies in my life.”
He slammed the trolls for trying to “tarnish love and beauty,” adding that those who have appointed themselves “morality police” should mind their own business.
“Stay away from my family and loved ones and friends! Show restraint and respect for a 10-year-old child who cannot defend herself, and for a beautiful adult young woman who found love in a caring relationship,” wrote Niehaus.
Niehaus gets support
Social media users have praised Niehaus for standing up against internet bullies.
Twitter user @skhumza replied, “Power to you Carl for standing up for those closest and most dear to you those you love.”
Facebook user Stanley Tamane added, “Tell them comrade Carl. They can’t handle their issues, but they are deep in other people’s issues.”