By Palesa Nguqu
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has accused Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie of breaking promises to athletes and artists, saying his record reflects neglect, mismanagement and political patronage.
In a sharply worded statement, DA spokesperson Leah Potgieter said McKenzie had turned his back on the industries he vowed to support.
Potgieter said the minister publicly pledged support for major festivals, including the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (KKNK), Woordfees, Suidoosterfees, Aardklop, Innibos, Vrystaat Kunstefees and the National Arts Festival. But after existing funding streams were withdrawn, organisers were advised to apply for the Mzansi Golden Economy (MGE) fund, only to see their applications rejected.
This has left established festivals with a proven track record of job creation and social impact in an unstable financial position, often with little warning, she said.
Potgieter also alleged that McKenzie stacked the MGE adjudication panel with active Patriotic Alliance members, including his party’s spokesperson
You’ve reached your free article limit
Subscribe to enjoy unlimited access to trusted journalism. Cancel anytime.
Subscribe nowNeed help? molokom@insidepolitic.co.za
