Gayton McKenzie says digging up his old social media posts is a ploy against him

CAPE TOWN - Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie said digging up old social media posts to allege he’s a racist is part of an orchestrated campaign against him because of the inroads his party - the Patriotic Alliance (PA) - has been making in the political arena.

He’s been unapologetic about these posts that are now under investigation by the SA Human Rights Commission.

McKenzie questioned why the Open Chats podcasters who made derogatory comments against coloured people are not being pursued with the same vigour.

The outcry over McKenzie’s posts on X was sparked by the complaint he made against the podcasters.

McKenzie said he doesn’t believe he’s made any racially inflammatory remarks.

ALSO READ: SAHRC believes there’s prima facie evidence that Gayton McKenzie violated Equality Act

In a social media message to supporters on Monday night, McKenzie said he will not apologise for social media posts deliberately taken out of context.

"It’s very obvious, people are intimidated by me. This is an operation. How do you go back 15 years? That means they can’t find something in my present."

Mckenzie has also dismissed claims that by refusing to resign, he’s desperate to cling to his job as his political opponents call for him to step down.

"I don’t want them to think I’m going to say things in order to keep a job. No, not me. That’s not me. 'Kill the boer, kill the farmer', that’s racism."

Mckenzie has also rallied behind mixed martial arts fighter Dricus du Plessis, saying he, too, has been falsely accused of racism.