Gayton McKenzie Says He’s Ready to Testify: ‘Get Your Popcorn Factory Ready’

Sport Minister says he “knows things” that could shake up the judicial commission into police and political corruption

In a week already crackling with political tension, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has declared his willingness to testify at the newly formed judicial commission of inquiry into explosive allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

And in typical McKenzie fashion, he didn’t hold back:

“This one is not ‘get your popcorn ready’ , you must get your popcorn factory ready,” he told Newzroom Africa on Tuesday.

A Nation on Edge as Criminal Capture Claims Unfold

Mkhwanazi’s allegations, first aired publicly on 6 July, have rocked the country. He claims a vast syndicate involving politicians, prosecutors, police generals, metro cops, correctional services officials, and even judges is operating hand-in-hand with drug cartels and shadowy business interests.

At the centre of the storm is Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who has been accused of interfering with investigations and dismantling a key KZN political killings task team. Mchunu has denied the claims but was placed on leave of absence while the probe unfolds.

President Cyril Ramaphosa acted swiftly, announcing the formation of a judicial commission of inquiry headed by Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, supported by Advocates Sesi Baloyi SC and Sandile Khumalo SC.

McKenzie: “I Know Things”

Minister McKenzie, never one to shy away from controversy, said he’s ready to spill the beans at the commission—if called.

“Mkhwanazi is blaming Mchunu. The minister is blaming him. Let’s get to the truth,” McKenzie said.

“If they call me, I’m going. I know things.”

His remarks suggest he’s privy to sensitive information, particularly around how organised crime has allegedly infiltrated law enforcement in the Western Cape, where gang violence continues to claim lives daily.

What the Commission Will Investigate

The commission’s scope is broad and heavy. It will probe:

• The infiltration of police, intelligence, and judiciary by criminal syndicates

• Allegations of manipulated investigations, whistleblower intimidation, and corrupt inducements

• Senior officials who may have aided or turned a blind eye to illegal activity

• Potential financial or political gains linked to organised crime networks

Why McKenzie’s Offer Matters

McKenzie’s offer to testify is more than political theatre. As a former ex-convict turned anti-corruption crusader, his insider experience of underworld dealings and deep networks in gang-prone communities could add weight to the commission’s findings.

And let’s be honest, McKenzie has built his political career on being blunt, fearless, and impossible to ignore. If he follows through, it could be one of the most watched moments in the commission.

Ramaphosa’s Balancing Act

The commission comes as Ramaphosa faces pressure from multiple directions. With Mchunu still drawing a full ministerial salary while on leave, opposition parties are calling the arrangement a “paid political holiday.”

Now, with Gayton McKenzie stepping into the fray, the commission risks becoming both a stage for truth and a national spectacle.

Public Reaction: Popcorn and Paranoia

On social media, McKenzie’s “popcorn factory” comment trended on X (formerly Twitter), with memes, gifs, and political takes flooding timelines.

Some South Africans expressed hope that “real accountability” might finally follow years of state capture. Others were more sceptical, noting that commissions often result in thick reports but thin justice.

One user quipped:

“At this point, we need a popcorn plantation. These commissions never end.”

Will This Commission Deliver?

Only time will tell whether the Mkhwanazi allegations commission becomes another long, costly saga—or a defining moment for justice in South Africa.

But one thing’s for sure: with Gayton McKenzie pledging to testify and hinting at bombshells, this is no ordinary inquiry.

South Africans might just need that popcorn after all.

{Source: The Citizen}

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