In a significant development within South African politics, Dr. Pieter Groenewald has stepped down as the leader of the Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) after a nine-year tenure. This decision, announced during the party's elective conference in Pretoria on February 22, 2025, allows Dr. Groenewald to dedicate his efforts to his role as the Minister of Correctional Services in the Government of National Unity (GNU).

Dr. Groenewald's leadership of the FF Plus began in November 2016, succeeding Pieter Mulder. Under his guidance, the party experienced notable growth, particularly in the 2019 general elections, where it secured 2.38% of the national vote, translating to ten seats in the National Assembly—the highest representation since its inception in 1994.

In June 2024, the FF Plus joined the ANC-led GNU, marking a pivotal moment in South African politics. Dr. Groenewald's appointment as Minister of Correctional Services on July 2, 2024, was a testament to this collaboration. His tenure as minister has been characterized by a commitment to reform. Notably, he advocated for correctional facilities to become more self-sufficient by producing their own food, aiming to reduce taxpayer expenses. Additionally, he initiated a comprehensive review of the parole system to enhance its effectiveness and fairness.