The tension between South Africa and Zimbabwe has flared up again, and this time, it’s because of a statement from South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie.
His comments about Zimbabweans allegedly celebrating South Africa’s struggles have ignited a heated debate online.
U.S. Funding Cuts Stir Reactions
The controversy started after former U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to cut financial aid to South Africa.
The decision, reportedly linked to concerns over land expropriation and alleged mistreatment of certain groups, quickly made international headlines.
Reactions poured in from political figures and the general public, with some supporting the move and others strongly opposing it.
However, McKenzie’s response stood out—not just for his criticism of Trump’s decision but for his remarks about Zimbabweans living in South Africa.
McKenzie’s Bold Accusations
Taking to social media, McKenzie didn’t hold back.
He claimed that undocumented Zimbabwean migrants were among those rejoicing over South Africa’s troubles.
“Whenever South Africa faces a tragedy or bad news, the first people celebrating are always these illegal foreigners, particularly Zimbabweans.
Your time in SA is running out fast. You hate us while staying illegally in our country,” he wrote.
His statement sparked immediate backlash, with many Zimbabweans rejecting his claims and calling his comments divisive.
Social media erupted with debates about immigration, xenophobia, and the tense relationship between the two neighboring countries.
A Pattern of Strong Rhetoric
This isn’t the first time McKenzie has made controversial remarks about Zimbabweans living in South Africa.
Back in August 2023, he criticized Zimbabwean nationals protesting against their country’s election results in South Africa, calling them “cowards” for not demonstrating back home.
In early 2024, he issued another warning, telling undocumented Zimbabweans to leave South Africa before the general elections, implying they could be forced out afterward.
While he insisted he had nothing against Zimbabweans as individuals, he made it clear that his priority was South African citizens.
Rising Tensions and Public Outcry
McKenzie’s latest comments have further fueled an already heated conversation about immigration and South Africa’s policies on undocumented migrants.
Many Zimbabweans and South Africans alike have called for a more balanced and constructive approach to these issues, rather than inflammatory statements that could deepen divisions.
The debate rages on, with people on both sides of the argument voicing their opinions.
What do you think? Are McKenzie’s concerns justified, or are his comments out of line? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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