WATCH: Minister Gayton Mckenzie demands (and promises) transparency over R800k Olympics trip

Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie demands transparency from his Department following the R800 000 price tag of his 2024 Paris Olympics trip. 

McKenzie went on the defence after he was accused of taking a ‘joyride’. 

Speaking to the Drive with Thando team on 947, he says he was only made aware of the cost when he was first asked about it.

“When I was accused of going on a joy ride, I said let me go ask the question and expose on social media the breakdown of the cost, who was doing it and how did we arrive at R800 000.”

- Gayton McKenzie

“The only cost I saw was before I went, they were struggling to find hotel rooms… I said I would not stay in a five-star, I am not going to spend that much… When the total cost came back it was R800 000. I was curious myself, that’s why I went public and I wanted the public to hear with me.” 

- Gayton McKenzie

“It was my first trip as a minister, I don’t book my own flights… The ministerial handbook is very clear, if you fly local, less than two hours, you must fly economy class… When you fly internationally, you must fly business class.”

- Gayton McKenzie

Many people criticised the minister for revoking funding for super fans while he could enjoy such an expensive trip.

McKenzie says comparing him to the likes of Mama Joy is sad.

 “[It] is very sad, I am not a super fan. I didn’t stay for the Olympics. I had a choice to stay but I didn’t… I went for meetings… When the Olympics started, I went to the opening, I went to watch the one hockey game and I went home.”

- Gayton McKenzie

“People are just being sensational… I didn’t go on a joy ride… I was transparent about everything… When I was originally asked the question I was annoyed, but then I was like, 'Why are you getting annoyed? You are a public servant!’.” 

- Gayton McKenzie

McKenzie says he will disclose the cost of future trips as it is in the public’s best interest. 

He also encourages people to look at other ministers. 

“What you expect from Gayton McKenzie, you must expect from other ministers. Am I the only Minister that travels?” 

- Gayton McKenzie

Watch the interview below: