South African Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has once again ignited controversy, this time finding himself at odds with Zimbabweans on social media after making incendiary remarks about illegal immigrants from the neighboring country. McKenzie, who has previously been accused of xenophobia, alleged that Zimbabweans residing illegally in South Africa were celebrating the nation’s misfortunes.
His comments came in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s threats to cut off aid to South Africa due to concerns over the treatment of racial minorities and the recently enacted Land Expropriation Bill. The timing of Gayton McKenzie’s remarks further escalated tensions as South Africa is also dealing with a diplomatic row with Rwanda over peacekeeping forces in the conflict-ridden Democratic Republic of Congo. In a post on Twitter, McKenzie declared that Zimbabweans living illegally in South Africa were on borrowed time.
“Whenever South Africa is faced with a tragedy or bad news, the people celebrating are always these illegal foreigners, particularly Zimbabweans. Your time in SA is running out fast. You hate us whilst staying illegally in our country,” he tweeted.
His statement was met with swift backlash from Zimbabwean social media users, political figures, and influential voices who condemned his words as divisive and inaccurate. One of the most prominent voices against McKenzie’s statements was former Zimbabwean opposition legislator Fadzayi Mahere. She firmly rejected his claims and highlighted the strong support that Zimbabweans have shown toward South Africa in various spheres.
“This is grossly inaccurate,” Mahere responded. “What’s funny is that Zimbabweans are ever rooting for South Africa and wishing it the best in all spheres. During the Rugby World Cup, Zimbabweans rooted for the Boks and were called ‘international orphans’ for doing so.”
She went on to call Gayton McKenzie’s claims baseless, emphasizing that Zimbabweans harbor no hostility toward South Africa and that it is irresponsible for a government minister to create animosity between the two nations.
“The hate is in your head and not borne out by the facts on the ground. Don’t speak for us. We can speak for ourselves. We have no issue with South Africa. May it succeed and be great. As a member of Cabinet, you ought to know better than to foment a non-existent war,” Mahere wrote.
Renowned Zimbabwean playwright Raisedon Baya also weighed in on the matter, accusing Gayton McKenzie of scapegoating Zimbabweans and fueling unnecessary hostility. “You are a dangerous person. Always gaslighting Zimbabweans,” he said in response to the minister’s remarks.
Gayton McKenzie’s latest outburst is not the first time he has been accused of xenophobic rhetoric. His hardline stance against illegal immigration has frequently drawn criticism, with many accusing him of targeting Zimbabweans as a political scapegoat for South Africa’s social and economic struggles. His remarks also come amid ongoing debates on immigration policy in South Africa, where many politicians have used anti-foreigner sentiments to rally support.
While the South African government has taken steps to regulate immigration and address public concerns, critics argue that inflammatory rhetoric from government officials only worsens relations between local citizens and foreign nationals. Zimbabwean immigrants, both legal and illegal, have long played a role in the South African economy, contributing to various industries while also facing discrimination and xenophobic violence.
The growing tensions between South Africa and Zimbabwe over statements like Gayton McKenzie’s raise concerns about the broader implications for diplomatic relations. Zimbabwe and South Africa share deep historical and economic ties, with millions of Zimbabweans relying on South Africa for employment, trade, and education opportunities.
Gayton McKenzie’s comments risk inflaming divisions between the two nations at a time when regional unity is crucial. Instead of fostering discord, political leaders in both countries must work towards policies that ensure fair treatment of all individuals while addressing concerns around illegal immigration in a constructive manner.
The uproar caused by McKenzie’s remarks serves as a reminder that social media posts by influential figures can have real-world consequences. As calls grow for him to retract his statements, the incident underscores the need for responsible political leadership in tackling complex socio-political issues without resorting to inflammatory rhetoric.
In other news – Prophet Walter Magaya partners with Kadoma City Council to revamp Rimuka Stadium
Renowned football enthusiast and Yadah FC owner, Prophet Walter Magaya, has taken a significant step toward improving Zimbabwe’s sports infrastructure by partnering with the Kadoma City Council to renovate Rimuka Stadium. The stadium, which last hosted top-flight football in 2008, is set to undergo a much-needed facelift.
During a visit to the venue on Tuesday, Walter Magaya expressed his dedication to reviving the stadium and ensuring it meets the required standards set by football authorities. Read More
The post Gayton McKenzie sets sights on Zimbabwean community once more appeared first on Mbare Times.
