Minister Gayton McKenzie has clapped back at reports that his trip to Paris to attend the Olympics opening ceremony cost taxpayers almost R1 million.
The revelation was made during a parliamentary seating this week.
The 50-year-old – who was recently named as one of SA’s favourite political leaders in a poll – has promised to provide an update on his 100 days in office.
GAYTON CLAPS BACK AT OLYMPICS ‘GRAVY TRAIN’ CLAIMS
In parliament this week, Gayton McKenzie was questioned by Joe McGluwa, chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture, about the costs incurred for South Africa’s delegation to the Paris Olympics, which took place from 26 July – 11 August.
According to a report by the Minister, the total amounted to R27 892,000. However, this figure is related to 146 athletes and technical support in the Olympic team.
The amount did not include the eight government officials, including himself.
“A total estimated budget of R1 805 335.74 was approved by the minister for officials travelling to the Olympics”, read the DA MP.
When asked about his own trip, Gayton responded: “Yes, I attended the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The total costs incurred by the department for my attendance at the Games amounted to R804 590.71.”
On social media, Gayton clapped back at a media outlet that labelled his trip a “gravy train.”
He tweeted from his X account: “I left the day the Olympics started. I went to government meetings with other Ministers of other countries. I didn’t attend the Olympics, only the opening, and I came back to work.
He added: “I could have stayed, but I wanted to get to know my new portfolio. Stop lying to people.”
In another tweet, he detailed his itinerary, adding: “I went to the athletic villa to greet our athletes; I attended the opening ceremony and watched the hockey, gymnastics and Sevens game. I opened Ekhaya village and watched the rest of the Olympic Games on TV. What joyride?”
In July, Gayton also defended his trip after one follower questioned whether he had used taxpayer money to fund it.
100 DAYS IN OFFICE REPORT
Meanwhile, Gayton McKenzie has promised to give a full report on his first 100 days in office as the Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture.
He tweeted earlier this month, “I will publicly share what I have done in 100 days, and it will be way way more than three things.”
The minister has previously revealed that he spends more than 16 hours a day dedicated to accomplishing his goals for the Department of Sports, Art, and Culture.
He tweeted: “I arrive every day at my office at 7am and leave around 11pm”.
DO YOU THINK THAT GAYTON MCKENZIE’S EXPENSES ARE WARRANTED?
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