By Staff Reporter
news@alexreporter.co.za
The African Unite Borders Bus Trucks Association (AUBBTA) has issued a strong call for the immediate resignation of Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie, accusing him of making racist remarks that undermine South Africa’s liberation history and the sacrifices of freedom fighters.
In a statement released by AUBBTA chairperson Mr. Mukhwathi Phumudzo, the association said McKenzie’s comments were “an insult to all liberation leaders, including the late President Nelson Mandela,” and disrespected the historic negotiations of the 1990s that brought stability, peace, and democracy to the country.
AUBBTA further criticised the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) for allowing individuals with criminal records and questionable public conduct to register as political leaders, saying this posed a risk to the nation’s integrity.
“We cannot allow people who do not understand our country’s history to lead, especially those who make statements that divide our people,” said Phumudzo. “The President must act swiftly to avoid further embarrassment to the Government of National Unity.”
The association warned that South Africans remain divided due to poverty, unemployment, poor healthcare, tribalism, and racism, and accused many political parties of misleading voters while looting state resources.
AUBBTA’s demands include:
Stricter IEC screening of political candidates for criminal records and harmful public statements.
Certified political education for all political leaders.
Immediate dismissal of any government official found promoting division or racism.
The organisation also urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to address “the crisis of foreign nationals, tribalism, and racism before the bomb explodes” and called on foundations to withdraw from national dialogue processes until Minister McKenzie is formally summoned to account for his remarks.
The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture has not yet responded to the call for comment.
