Nearly R6m in taxpayer money paid for Gauteng legislature trip to Venezuela, report says

According to The South African, nearly R6 million of public funds covered a Gauteng Provincial Legislature delegation’s trip to Venezuela in November 2025, with roughly R1.5 million reportedly paid as allowances.

Cost and official figures

The South African reported that documents submitted to the Oversight Committee on the Premier’s Office and Legislature put the total cost of the trip at R5 997 895. The report said the trip included allowances that amounted to about R1.5 million.

Who travelled and how long the visit lasted

The South African stated the delegation numbered 13 people: Speaker Morakane Mosupyoe, four members of the provincial legislature and seven staff members. Each delegate reportedly received an allowance of R125 000.

The legislature authorised the delegation to spend 12 days abroad, although The South African reported the International Tourism Fair of Venezuela (FITVEN) ran for four days.

Purpose and political response

According to The South African, Speaker Morakane Mosupyoe led the delegation to the International Tourism Fair of Venezuela (FITVEN) in November 2025. The article said Mosupyoe defended the visit, saying the government had formally approved it and that the delegation aimed to strengthen international relations and promote Gauteng abroad.

The South African reported that the Democratic Alliance has submitted a motion of censure against Mosupyoe over the expenditure, arguing the funds could have been used for service delivery challenges and calling for accountability. The legislature had not confirmed when it would debate the motion, according to The South African.

What we know from the records

• Total reported cost: R5 997 895, per documents referenced by The South African.
• Allowances: About R1.5 million in total; R125 000 per delegate, as reported by The South African.
• Delegation size: 13 people Speaker, four MPLs and seven staff, per The South African.
• Event and timing: FITVEN in November 2025; visit authorised for 12 days though the fair ran for four days, according to The South African.

This article is based on reporting by The South African.