Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie has denied claims that he has softened his stance on illegal immigration since joining government.
McKenzie, now Minister of Sports, has been accused of becoming less vocal about undocumented foreign nationals since his appointment to Cabinet.
Speaking to Eyewitness News on the sidelines of the Youth Day commemorative event in Soweto on Tuesday, McKenzie said his position had not changed.
He said he had only become more responsible in how he campaigns on the issue.
Before the 2024 general elections, McKenzie was one of the most vocal political figures calling for undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa.
He led the PA’s “abahambe” campaign, which called for undocumented migrants to go.
From protest politics to Cabinet
McKenzie was also involved in a controversial operation at the Beitbridge border, where he was seen confronting people attempting to cross into South Africa from Zimbabwe.
Since becoming a minister, critics have accused him of toning down his public campaign against illegal immigration.
McKenzie rejected that argument.
He said being in Cabinet meant he was now part of the space where decisions are made.
“I am sitting at the table where decisions are being taken, and now you want me to still run around. Is that not madness? Do you want me to leave Cabinet and scream ‘abahambe’?” he said.
More measured approach
McKenzie said his approach had become more measured and mature, but insisted that did not mean he had abandoned his position.
His comments come as immigration remains one of the country’s most heated political issues.
Civil society groups and political parties have intensified calls for government to act against illegal immigration, while rights groups have warned against violence and xenophobia.
June 30 protest looms
McKenzie said he was not opposed to the upcoming protest planned for 30 June.
However, he said he was against any use of violence.
His comments come as authorities prepare for demonstrations linked to growing public anger over undocumented foreign nationals.
McKenzie’s latest remarks suggest he wants to balance his long-standing political message with his role inside government.
For supporters, he remains committed to the same cause.
For critics, the test will be whether his place in the Cabinet leads to action beyond slogans.