Melany Viljoen, a cast member of The Real Housewives of Pretoria, has recently opened up about her decision to leave South Africa for the United States, citing a range of personal and political reasons.
In a candid conversation shared on Instagram with her husband, Peet Viljoen, Melany expressed her fears and frustrations regarding life in South Africa, which she described as increasingly threatening.
The couple’s move comes in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s offer of refugee resettlement for Afrikaners and other minorities in South Africa who claim to be victims of racial discrimination.
This announcement has sparked considerable debate and controversy, particularly regarding the portrayal of South Africa’s socio-political landscape.
The reality TV star articulated her safety concerns, stating that she felt her life was in jeopardy due to intimidation from individuals she identified as black South Africans.
She claimed that her businesses were targeted, leading to an atmosphere of fear that ultimately pushed her to leave the country.
“Black people would pitch at my business, at my house, at multiple of my businesses and try to intimidate the staff and try to intimidate me,” she said.
“It just became so scary for me in South Africa that I couldn’t wait to leave.”
Additionally, she cited Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) laws as a significant factor in her decision to relocate.
She expressed her belief that these laws fostered a sense of empowerment among black South Africans, which she perceives as a threat to her and her family’s safety.
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“I lost my biggest contract because I’m not black. With the BEE laws and all their anti-white laws kicking into South Africa, it gives black people in SA the feeling that they have more power and that they can just kill who they want and take what they want,” she stated.
The Viljoens’ relocation has not been without its challenges.
They reportedly sold their businesses, including Tammy Taylor Nails, and have faced legal issues in the United States, including a court order to reimburse the real Tammy Taylor for trademark infringement.
Despite these setbacks, the couple remains steadfast in their beliefs and has garnered a following among those who share their views.
In recent interviews with News24, Melany has faced backlash for her comments regarding her experiences with black castmates on The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip, where she expressed her disdain for working with them.
Her husband, Peet, has also made headlines for openly admitting his racist sentiments, stating, “There is no doubt in my mind that I am a racist and hate South African black people.”
Melany, when asked if she shares his views, responded, “We hate corrupt black people – that’s what we said.”
The Viljoens have positioned themselves as advocates for the Afrikaner community, expressing their support for Donald Trump and his policies.
In a recent Instagram post, Melany declared, “President Trump sees us. The Boere are WELCOME in America. While the media spins and dilutes the truth, we stand FIRM. We will FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT for the Afrikaner. For justice. For freedom. For our future.”
