THE announcement of Patriotic Alliance’s Gayton McKenzie, as minister of Sport, Arts and Culture has been met with excitement.
The vocal McKenzie takes over the vacated ministerial position as the minister for an executive position previously held by former Minister, Zizi Kodwa who resigned in June, following court appearance on corruption charges as former spokesperson for the ANC.
Various sporting federations welcomed the move and wished him the best, as he is expected to take the baton to new heights.
In the post that went viral, the new minister is seen in soccer outfit and soccer boots, declaring “its time to work now”.
The former Karoo Mayor was quoted: “I look forward changing the landscape of Sport in SA, and supporting our artists for they’ve been overlooked for years.”
He also promised to transform motor-spinning from what was perceived as a thug race, to a sport, especially in coloured communities where it is popular.
Initially McKenzie was eyeing either Police or Home Affairs portfolios in the cabinet, in an effort to deal with illegal immigrants, drugs and hijacking of buildings in Hillbrow and Pretoria, but had to settle for what has been offered to him.
Peace Mabe, was also named as the new Deputy Minister. The incumbent takes over from the former Deputy Minister, Nocawe Mafu.
“The Department would like to take this opportunity and officially welcome the new leadership. We are looking forward to their dedication and leadership in ensuring a sustainable growth within the Creative & Cultural Industries; promotion and preservation of our heritage sector, as well as the development of sports sector”, noted the Acting Director-General, Dr Cynthia Khumalo.
This follows the new cabinet as announced by President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa, that is part of the much-anticipated introduction of the Government of Unity – seventh administration.
Image (Former gangster and now minister of Sport, Gayton Mckenzie – handing over bicycles to kids- has vowed to change the landscape of Sport in the country and support artists).
