Former South African President Thabo Mbeki recently directed sharp criticism at Sports, Arts, and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie, accusing him of weaponising Afrophobia for political gain. In a pointed commentary, Mbeki suggested that McKenzie is among those he considers counter-revolutionaries who exploit xenophobic sentiments for electoral advantage.
Mbeki, in his weekly newsletter, drew parallels between South Africa and England, both of which are grappling with migration issues. He emphasised the need for South Africa to find ways to integrate marginalised and excluded migrants into the social fabric, cautioning against rhetoric that alienates these groups.
Mbeki highlighted that citizens who feel neglected and impoverished are particularly vulnerable to being manipulated by those with anti-revolutionary agendas.
Mbeki’s critique extended to the response to the Chidimma Adetshina saga, where he condemned the handling of the situation as sordid. He further criticized those, like McKenzie, who use slogans such as “Mabahambe” (“They must go”) during political campaigns, arguing that this rhetoric fosters division and undermines the country’s revolutionary ideals.
In a swift response, McKenzie took to social media to defend his stance, proudly embracing the label of counter-revolutionary. On his X account, @GaytonMcK, McKenzie argued that standing with South African citizens who have suffered due to identity theft and illegal immigration does not make him Afrophobic but rather a defender of South Africans’ rights.
He reiterated his position that those in the country illegally, causing social and economic disruptions, should be deported, stating, “If calling for those who are here illegally taking jobs and causing havoc to ‘Abahambe’ makes me a counter-revolutionary, I am a counter-revolutionary proudly.”
The exchange between Mbeki and McKenzie has ignited a broader public debate, with many South Africans rallying behind McKenzie’s rhetoric. Social media users expressed support for McKenzie, criticising Mbeki for not addressing criminal activities allegedly perpetrated by foreign nationals.
One user, @mlungu_waka_Jevoha, echoed McKenzie’s sentiments, stating, “We are counter-revolutionary with you together.” Another user, Thembalethu Thera, thanked McKenzie for standing up for South Africans, accusing the country’s leadership of turning against its citizens by labelling them Afrophobic when they raise legitimate concerns.
This public clash underscores the deepening divide within South Africa over issues of immigration and national identity, with influential figures like Mbeki and McKenzie representing opposing views on how the country should address these challenges.
Stories with more insights, check out our urban online radio mbonoradio.co.za
