Did Minister Gayton McKenzie really spend R800k of taxpayers money on the Paris trip?

by Nomonde Simelane

Since being sworn into office earlier this year after the introduction of the coveted Government of National Unity (GNU), Minister Gayton McKenzie has garnered plenty of attention for his passionate approach to his new portfolio. His constant preaching about the need for transparency from government officials has come to bite him in the behind, as mzansi wants to know whether he spent R800k for his trip to the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Among many others, News 24 reported about the Minister’s trip to the Olympics costing an estimated R800k. The report revealed that approximately R400, 000 was used for ground transportation, while about R215, 000 was spent on flights.

Coming to his defence and attempting to clear his name, the minister clarified that although he did go to Paris, it was merely due to fulfilling his duties as the minister, which included attending six meetings in total as well as participating in the opening of the Ekhaya village. He then revealed that he was able to attend the opening ceremony and watch a few games as well, as opposed to the ‘joyride’ he is accused of.

Continuing, Gayton calls upon the acting director general of the department, pleading for a further breakdown of the total cost of the trip to provide more accountability to the public.

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