Petition calls for Gayton McKenzie’s immediate resignation as minister

Fresh pressure is mounting on Sport, Arts and Culture Minister and Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader Gayton McKenzie, following renewed demands for him to step down from his Cabinet position.

A petition initiated by the Truth and Solidarity Movement, led by Mehmet Vefa Dag, is calling for McKenzie to resign as minister amid growing criticism of his public statements and alleged conduct.

The petition accuses McKenzie of making divisive remarks about Black South Africans and other Africans, arguing that such comments could undermine national unity, equality and social cohesion.

However, the campaign is not limited to his public statements. Its organisers have also raised concerns about McKenzie’s criminal history and other alleged conduct, questioning whether his actions are consistent with the standards expected of someone occupying a senior government position.

How much support has the petition received?

According to a report published by Briefly News on 11 November 2026, the petition had gathered 655 verified signatures out of its target of 1,000.

The petition was initially launched on 11 August 2025, indicating that the latest developments represent renewed efforts to attract public support for an existing campaign.

The growing attention surrounding the petition has brought McKenzie’s political position back into the spotlight, with organisers continuing to push for greater accountability from the minister.

Previous controversy surrounding McKenzie

McKenzie has also faced criticism over historical social media posts that reportedly contained controversial remarks.

The South African Human Rights Commission has been investigating complaints relating to allegations of racism and hate speech linked to some of his previous posts.

It is important to note that the commission’s investigation is separate from the resignation petition. The allegations have not, on the information provided, been established as proven findings.

McKenzie was appointed Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture on 3 July 2024 and remains listed in the position on Parliament’s official website.

Meanwhile, the petition itself does not have the power to remove him from Cabinet. The authority to appoint or dismiss ministers rests with the President.

As the campaign attracts renewed attention, questions are emerging about whether the growing criticism could translate into increased political pressure on the PA leader.

For now, McKenzie’s future in Cabinet remains unchanged, while the petition organisers continue seeking public support for their demand.

THE BIG QUESTION: Should Gayton McKenzie resign as Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, or should he remain in Cabinet and respond to the criticism and allegations against him?

Share your views in the comments and follow The Mzansi Plug for more South African political developments.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EwRprHnqx/

DoveNews feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com