Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has defended Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena after his comments upset ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula.
Mokoena, who was Bafana’s goalscoring hero in the 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic in the second Group A Fifa World Cup match, acknowledged the EFF supporters at Bafana’s homecoming at OR Tambo International Airport, stating: “Are you guys okay? I wanted to thank you for supporting us. I know it’s been a long time since we qualified for the World Cup. EFF, I see you.”
Mbalula immediately launched a comeback on X (formerly Twitter) and urged Safa to reprimand the Mamelodi Sundowns star.
“This Mokoena gimmick is a calculated move; we know where it comes from — it is deliberate and intentional. They did not do it when Sundowns won CAF. At your leisure, be free to support the EFF and even attend their rallies, no qualms. Don’t abuse the national team; that we will not allow,” Mbalula posted on X.
He continued: “Our athletes must be properly guided and educated about patriotism. When you are a national team player and wear the jersey, you don’t have the liberty to pronounce your political preferences because the national team belongs to all South Africans.
“I did raise the matter with the President of Safa, Danny Jordaan, when it happened last time to rein in these young people; clearly, he did not act. Can you imagine if Siya Kolisi was to tell us his political preferences? It would be a disaster.”
With social media users also vociferously joining the attack on Mokoena and inciting retaliation from EFF supporters, McKenzie has now called for calm around the Bafana midfielder.
“Political affiliation should have no place in our sport. Many are rightfully upset about Mokoena acknowledging the Economic Freedom Fighters. The EFF came out in numbers; I greeted them publicly as well. The player intended no malice. The atmosphere was one of unity,” McKenzie posted on X.
