MK Party demands full account of R33m World Cup spend as minister disputes figure

The MK party has demanded a full account of R33 million in public funds allegedly linked to the FIFA World Cup, saying the money remains “properly unaccounted for” and calling for intensified parliamentary oversight.

Allegations of poor governance and missing funds

The party accused the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture of flouting constitutional principles of accountability and transparency. Spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu warned that recurring governance failures, weak oversight and poor programme implementation undermine service delivery, and said that “accountability is a constitutional obligation, not a choice.”

What the MK party is asking for

The MK party has called on Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture to intensify oversight, demand full disclosure and ensure consequence management. Mahlangu requested a transparent account of the R33 million, including:

• how the funds were allocated;
• who authorised the expenditure;
• whether value for money was achieved; and
• whether disciplinary, civil or criminal action has been initiated.

Mahlangu argued the funds should have been directed towards improving sport infrastructure in rural and township communities, strengthening school sport programmes, upgrading facilities, supporting athletes and empowering artists. He said:

“Instead, they are now the subject of serious accountability concerns. South Africans deserve answers.”

Minister Gayton McKenzie rejects the R33m claim

Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie disputed the R33 million figure, saying R31 million was spent, not R33 million. McKenzie insisted there was

“nothing to hide,”

and said the expenditure was lawful, transparent and aligned with the department’s mandate.

He told Parliament the figures were misrepresented to suggest he personally spent R31 million, when in fact the amount covered travel, hospitality, exhibitions and cultural showcases for a 151‑member delegation. Facing criticism from opposition parties and the public, McKenzie said international programmes cannot be run “on Zoom” and require a physical presence to build relationships and attract investment. He maintained the initiative promoted South Africa’s image abroad through sport, culture and tourism, and invited the Auditor‑General or law enforcement to investigate if anyone suspects wrongdoing.

Next steps and oversight

The MK party is urging parliamentary action and a full, public accounting of the disputed funds. Mahlangu emphasised that the minister and senior management cannot distance themselves from their constitutional responsibility to account to Parliament, saying:

“The people of South Africa deserve a department that places service delivery ahead of wasteful expenditure and political expediency.”