Cape Town – Minister of Arts, Sports and Culture Gayton McKenzie has publicly praised billionaire Johann Rupert as a “true patriot” after previously criticising him.
This came after Rupert’s notable appearance alongside President Cyril Ramaphosa and former US President Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday.
McKenzie acknowledged being wrong about Rupert, highlighting his outspoken stance on crime, illegal immigration, and national issues.
“Rupert is not who we think he is, he is a true Patriot. He loves this country and I wanna be the first to admit that I was wrong about him. He spoke up against killing on flats, he spoke against illegal foreigners but most importantly he stood up for South Africa. He is a gem,” the mister wrote on social media.
Rupert is not who we think he is, he is a true Patriot. He loves this country and I wanna be the first to admit that I was wrong about him. He spoke up against killing on flats, he spoke against illegal foreigners but most importantly he stood up for South Africa. He is a gem 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/qlmBwnbfwt
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) May 21, 2025
He emphasised that violent crime affects all South Africans and linked it to unemployment and illegal immigration.
Rupert also criticised political leaders like DA leader John Steenhuisen for downplaying gang violence.
Johann Rupert tells President Donald Trump that crime is a widespread issue in South Africa affecting all communities, not just white people, thereby dismissing claims of a white genocide.#SAinUSA pic.twitter.com/9DRi1S6TkK
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) May 21, 2025
President Ramaphosa echoed Rupert’s concerns, stating that economic growth and investment are key to addressing crime and inequality.
He stressed that the primary aim of the visit was to deepen US-South Africa trade and job creation.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
