‘I’m here to change lives’ – McKenzie pledges full salary to Joshlin Smith Foundation

McKenzie

Cape Town – Newly elected Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has reportedly pledged to donate 100% of his parliamentary salary to the Joshlin Smith Foundation for missing children.

According to IOL, the leader of the Patriotic Alliance will earn R2.68 million annually from his ministerial position over his five-year term.

Joshlin’s mother, Kelly Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appolis, Stevano van Rhyn, and Lourentia Lombaard have been charged with trafficking in persons for exploitation and kidnapping.

The State alleges that Joshlin was sold for R20 000.

“One hundred per cent of my salary I’m giving it to the Joshlin Smith Foundation for missing children for the duration of my stay in Parliament, 100% of my salary not 80% or 50%…Because I’m not here for money, I’m here to change the lives of our people,” the report quoted McKenzie as saying.

He emphasised his commitment to societal change, stating, “I’m not here for money; I’m here to change the lives of our people.”

The minister, who was sworn-in on Wednesday, recently expressed satisfaction with his new role despite initially seeking the Home Affairs or Police portfolios.

“Many people will not understand. We wanted Home Affairs or Police Ministry, but the true followers will know we also wanted Sports. I told the ANC ( African National Congress) about sports off the record during the negotiations.

“I’m a sports person. I love sports, I follow sports,” said McKenzie.

McKenzie outlined his plans for the portfolio, prioritising the fight against discrimination in Indigenous games.

“I’m passionate about sports and I also know about the discrimination against poor people with indigenous sports – people in the villages,” he said.

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Compiled by Betha Madhomu

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