KEY POINTS
- McKenzie denies favoritism in selecting the Cuba book fair delegation.
- Critics claim political allies were included over prominent authors.
- Minister defends choices, saying inclusion was his priority.
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has pushed back against accusations of political favoritism in selecting the delegation for the Havana International Book Fair in Cuba.
The minister defended his choices, stating that his only intention was to promote inclusion in the arts sector.
McKenzie’s response came after City Press reported that several prominent authors criticized him for allegedly filling the delegation with his political allies rather than recognized literary figures.
In a Facebook post on Sunday, McKenzie insisted that he made fair and diverse selections. Additionally, he dismissed claims that he handpicked individuals aligned with his Patriotic Alliance (PA) party.
“My crime was wanting inclusion,” he wrote. “I took one look at the list and wanted more diversity, ensuring that it included Coloured and White participants as well.”
Writers and critics raise concerns
Despite McKenzie’s defense, some in South Africa’s literary and cultural community argue that the minister bypassed respected writers in favor of political allies.
Historian and author Patric Tariq Mellet alleged that three PA supporters were added to the delegation, none of whom were recognized as prominent authors. “These are highly questionable choices driven by political patronage,” he said.
Ismail Mahomed, director of the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, stated that the issue extended beyond the final delegation list. Also, he pointed to a lack of transparency and credibility in the selection process.
South Africa is attending the book fair as a guest of honor. Moreover, many expected the delegation to reflect a broad representation of the country’s literary talent.
McKenzie stands firm on his decisions
McKenzie, however, remains unapologetic. In his Facebook post, he expressed frustration with critics and the media. He stated that he would continue defending inclusivity in South Africa’s cultural sector.
“I don’t care about the media. Write what you like—I have a million followers across my social platforms, and I will get my version across whenever I need to,” he declared.
According to IOL, he dismissed allegations that political loyalty influenced the delegation list. He stated that he had no prior relationship with most of the attendees.
Meanwhile, some of McKenzie’s critics are calling for greater transparency in how cultural delegations are selected.
Others argue that this controversy highlights broader concerns about political interference in South Africa’s arts and culture sector.
