Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has hit back at critics who continue to speculate about his political future, firmly declaring that he has no intention of leaving the Government of National Unity (GNU) or joining the African National Congress (ANC).
Responding to claims that he should cross over to the ruling party following the successful hosting of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, McKenzie insisted that his commitment remains with the PA and the GNU under President Cyril Ramaphosa’s leadership.
“I lead the fastest-growing political party in South Africa — why would I want to leave?” McKenzie said, brushing off suggestions that he is eyeing an ANC membership. “I serve under the leadership of President Ramaphosa. No one forced me to join the GNU. I accepted when I was invited. Go hate your boss, but here we have mutual respect.”
I lead the fastest growing political party in SA, why would I wanna leave ? I serve under the leadership of President Ramaphosa, no one forced me to join the GNU, I accepted when invited, go hate your boss but here we have mutual respect. We just delivered a world class event🕺 https://t.co/plup4CLhFR
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) November 23, 2025
McKenzie’s remarks come in the wake of growing chatter from political commentators and detractors who argue that his collaborative approach with the ANC signals an eventual shift into its ranks. But the outspoken minister dismissed such narratives as wishful thinking from those unsettled by the stability and unity within the GNU.
He emphasised that respect, professionalism, and shared purpose define his working relationship with the President — a stance he says critics deliberately ignore. “We just delivered a world-class event,” McKenzie noted, referencing the globally praised G20 Summit. “People should focus on the progress we are making, not on fantasies they create.”
Political analysts believe McKenzie’s latest comments are aimed at reinforcing his party’s identity as it gains traction nationally. With the PA continuing to expand its footprint, speculation around his political positioning has intensified. Yet, his message remains consistent: he is loyal to his mandate, his party, and his role in the GNU.
Supporters applauded his firm response, praising him for refusing to be swayed by political noise. Detractors, however, maintain that his growing influence within the unity government is bound to fuel ongoing speculation.
For now, McKenzie maintains that the partnership within the GNU is based on respect and shared national priorities — not political assimilation. “I am here to serve South Africa,” he concluded. “And I will continue doing so where I am, with the people who invited me to help rebuild this country.”
With the G20 Summit hailed as a diplomatic and logistical success, McKenzie appears determined to ensure that the focus remains on delivery rather than political gossip — a stance that keeps him firmly at the centre of South Africa’s evolving political landscape.
