Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie has stated he will step down if President Cyril Ramaphosa instructs him to do so. McKenzie faces allegations from Jermaine Prim but maintains his loyalty to the president. He has also firmly denied any involvement in drug-related activities.
Gayton McKenzie has made it clear that his position is subject to the president’s decision. He said he would resign if suspended, emphasizing his commitment to the office he serves. The Patriotic Alliance leader has distanced himself from any personal interests in his political role.
He addressed the controversy by stating his allegiance is to the president rather than to personal relationships. McKenzie said,
“I serve the president, not friends.”
This statement comes amid growing scrutiny over his conduct and associations.
Jermaine Prim has levelled accusations against McKenzie, prompting a public response from the Patriotic Alliance leader. McKenzie has dismissed these allegations, asserting that they hold no merit. He has not provided further details regarding the nature of Prim’s claims.
Despite the allegations, McKenzie remains steadfast in his position. He reiterated his willingness to step aside if the president deems it necessary, reinforcing his stance on accountability within the party.
McKenzie has categorically denied all claims linking him to drug-related activities. He addressed these accusations directly, stating that there is no truth to them. The leader has called for evidence to support any such allegations.
He has maintained that his record is clear and that he will not tolerate unfounded accusations. McKenzie said,
“I reject all drug-related claims.”
His response aims to reassure both his supporters and the broader public regarding his integrity.
Who is Jermaine Prim?
Jermaine Prim is a South African inmate and convicted fraudster who has drawn national attention due to his alleged involvement in organised crime, both before and during his incarceration. Originally from Eldorado Park in Johannesburg, Prim was imprisoned around 2017 for vehicle-related crimes.
Authorities have linked him to a sophisticated fraud and car theft syndicate, with allegations that he continued coordinating criminal activities from inside prison, including schemes targeting owners of high-end vehicles and impersonating officials to facilitate theft.
In recent years, Prim’s profile has expanded beyond criminal proceedings due to a series of controversies linked to his time in custody. He has been the subject of investigations after reportedly giving an unauthorised media interview from prison, raising serious concerns about security lapses within the correctional system. His situation has also been shaped by legal battles over his detention conditions, particularly his placement in high-security facilities, which he has challenged in court.