South Africa’s Portfolio Committee on Sports has launched a scathing critique of Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie, accusing him of persistent absenteeism from critical parliamentary meetings and undermining efforts to address systemic challenges in the sector. Committee Chairperson Thandi Modise expressed frustration over McKenzie’s repeated failures to attend sessions, describing his conduct as “unacceptable” and a dereliction of duty. The committee’s rebuke follows reports that McKenzie missed over 70% of scheduled meetings in 2025, leaving key policy discussions unresolved amid ongoing crises in national sports administration.
The criticism highlights broader concerns about governance and accountability under McKenzie’s leadership. Since his appointment in 2024, the minister has faced scrutiny over delays in finalizing the National Sports Policy Framework, unresolved disputes involving the South African Football Association (Safa), and allegations of mismanagement within state-funded sporting bodies. “When the minister ignores his responsibilities, it sends a message that sports development is not a priority,” said a Pretoria-based policy analyst.
Public reaction has been sharply critical, with athletes and sports federations voicing disappointment over the lack of direction from the ministry. The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) issued a statement urging McKenzie to “step up or step aside,” while grassroots coaches lamented the absence of clear strategies to support youth programs and infrastructure upgrades. Social media users also piled on, with one commenter writing, “How can he fix sports if he’s never in the room?”.
The committee’s stance comes amid mounting pressure on McKenzie to address corruption allegations within the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture. A recent audit revealed irregularities in funding allocations for the 2023–2024 fiscal year, including unaccounted expenditures linked to high-profile events like the SA Sports Awards. Critics argue that the minister’s lack of engagement has allowed such issues to fester, eroding trust in institutions meant to oversee fair play in sports governance.
While McKenzie’s office has yet to formally respond to the committee’s allegations, insiders suggest internal discussions are underway to reassess his role. Analysts warn that continued instability could jeopardize South Africa’s preparations for regional tournaments and the 2027 Rugby World Cup, where logistical and financial readiness remains uncertain. “Leadership gaps at the top trickle down to every level of sport,” noted a Cape Town-based sports economist.
As political tensions escalate, the committee’s demand for improved engagement underscores a growing rift between Parliament and the ministry—a conflict that could define the trajectory of South Africa’s sports sector in an election year marked by calls for transparency and reform.
