Tensions have flared after South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, made controversial remarks about Zimbabweans.

His comments, which accused Zimbabwean migrants of celebrating South Africa’s struggles, have sparked outrage and intensified discussions about immigration and international relations.

U.S. Funding Cut to South Africa Triggers Strong Reactions

The controversy unfolded after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the United States would be cutting financial aid to South Africa.

The decision, reportedly due to concerns over land expropriation and alleged mistreatment of certain groups, quickly made headlines worldwide.

As expected, reactions poured in from different corners—some supported the move, while others criticized it.

However, McKenzie’s response took a different turn.

He took to social media, claiming that undocumented Zimbabwean migrants were among those who celebrated South Africa’s financial setback.

McKenzie’s Social Media Comments Spark Backlash

In a widely shared tweet, McKenzie accused Zimbabweans of taking pleasure in South Africa’s struggles, particularly undocumented migrants.

“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 wrote.

His comments triggered an immediate backlash, with many Zimbabweans and South Africans calling his remarks inflammatory and divisive.

Critics accused him of fueling xenophobia at a time when tensions over immigration were already high.

A Pattern of Controversial Statements

This isn’t the first time McKenzie has made bold statements regarding Zimbabweans living in South Africa.

Back in August 2023, he lashed out at Zimbabwean nationals who protested against their government’s election results while in South Africa.

He argued that they should be demonstrating in their own country rather than bringing their grievances across the border.

Then, in early 2024, McKenzie issued a warning to undocumented Zimbabweans, urging them to leave before South Africa’s general elections.

He suggested that they might be forced out afterward.

While he claimed to have respect for Zimbabweans, he maintained that his priority was South African citizens and that Zimbabweans should be focusing on solving their country’s problems instead of seeking refuge in South Africa.

The Growing Debate on Immigration

McKenzie’s remarks have reignited discussions about immigration policies and the broader relationship between South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Many Zimbabweans have rejected his claims, arguing that they are unfairly scapegoated for South Africa’s challenges.

At the same time, some South Africans have supported McKenzie’s stance, echoing concerns about illegal immigration and its impact on jobs and resources. The debate continues to grow, with both sides standing firm in their views.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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