South African Correspondent
SOUTH AFRICA — An investigation has been launched by the Office of the Public Protector, led by Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka, into Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie following serious allegations regarding the misuse of public funds during his recent trip to the Olympics in Paris, France.
The inquiry comes in response to a complaint filed by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), with spokesperson Sinawo Thambo emphasizing the party’s determination to hold the Government of National Unity (GNU) accountable for its actions.
“We are committed to ensuring that public resources are used appropriately and transparently,” Thambo stated.
In a letter dated December 3, the Public Protector confirmed the receipt of the complaint, which outlined potential breaches of the code of ethical conduct and the Ministerial Handbook that governs members of the executive.
Gcaleka’s office acknowledged the serious nature of Thambo’s allegations, indicating that McKenzie’s conduct may not only involve misusing funds but also misleading the public regarding the purpose of his visit.
“We confirm receipt of your complaint lodged with our Western Cape office on December 1 2024, concerning allegations that Mr. McKenzie violated the code of ethical conduct and possibly breached the Ministerial Handbook,” Gcaleka noted.
The scrutiny intensified when McKenzie revealed in a parliamentary response that his Olympic trip cost over R800,000. The breakdown of expenses is staggering: R215,976 for flights, R113,271 for accommodation, and a significant R454,005 on ground transport.
Thambo expressed indignation over these figures, labeling them as a blatant misuse of taxpayer money.
“McKenzie’s extravagant expenditure on this trip, from flights to hotel accommodation, shows a blatant disregard for taxpayer money,” Thambo declared.
“He has admitted to spending over R800,000 on his Olympics visit. Yet, he initially denied attending the event, only later confirming it in a response to a parliamentary question. This inconsistency is a serious matter of public trust and calls into question his adherence to ethical standards.”
The details of the expenses were disclosed in a letter from Dr. C N Khumalo, the acting director-general of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture.
The exorbitant ground transport costs, which included chauffeur services, have raised eyebrows across the political spectrum.
The EFF specifically criticized these expenses as excessive, particularly in light of McKenzie’s previous claims that his attendance was limited to the opening ceremony of the Games.
As the investigation unfolds, the public will be closely watching for further developments regarding the allegations against Minister McKenzie and the implications for accountability within the government.
Zim GBC News©2024