GAYTON MCKENZIE FIRES BACK AT AFRICAN LEADERS ACCUSING SOUTH AFRICA OF XENOPHOBIA — SAYS THEY MUST ASK WHY MILLIONS OF THEIR OWN CITIZENS ARE FLEEING THEIR COUNTRIES TO COME TO SOUTH AFRICA
Sports, Arts and Culture Minister has sparked intense reactions online after delivering a strong response to African leaders criticizing South Africa over xenophobia allegations.
In a fiery statement, McKenzie said leaders from other African countries who continue warning their citizens about South Africa should first ask themselves why millions of their own people are leaving their home countries and moving to South Africa.
His comments come amid growing diplomatic tensions and criticism from some African countries following recent unrest and attacks linked to foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
McKenzie’s remarks immediately divided public opinion across social media. Supporters praised him for “speaking uncomfortable truths” about governance failures, unemployment, corruption, and economic collapse in some African countries that push citizens to migrate.
Critics, however, accused him of inflaming tensions and using harsh rhetoric during a sensitive period where regional diplomacy and unity are already under pressure.
The debate has now expanded beyond xenophobia, with many South Africans discussing border control, illegal immigration, economic pressure, unemployment, and whether the country is carrying a disproportionate burden compared to other African nations.
Others argue that African governments should work together to solve economic crises and migration challenges instead of exchanging blame publicly.
Do you agree with Gayton McKenzie’s statement to African leaders? 🇿🇦👇