Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie has expressed his support for Kenny Kunene as the next mayor of Johannesburg, describing him as a "ruffian" who can effectively tackle crime in the city. McKenzie made these comments during the PA's Johannesburg campaign, emphasizing the need for a leader who will confront criminals head-on. He contrasted Kunene with the Democratic Alliance's federal chair, Helen Zille, who he believes is not equipped to address the city's problems.
McKenzie was critical of Zille, suggesting that she should focus on her own affairs rather than trying to lead Johannesburg. He questioned why promises she made to Soweto had not been delivered in communities in the Western Cape, such as Langa, Gugulethu, and Khayelitsha. McKenzie also pointed out that Zille's promises concerning Eldorado Park in Johannesburg had not been addressed in other areas like Mitchells Plain, Bellville, Valhalla Park, and Kraaifontein.
The Patriotic Alliance is open to working with other parties if it means gaining the power to implement its priorities. McKenzie stated that the PA is already working with the Freedom Front Plus and is willing to collaborate with other parties to achieve its goals. He expressed skepticism about winning an outright majority in Johannesburg, but hopes to gain enough support to avoid a coalition involving multiple parties.
McKenzie criticized the DA and Freedom Front Plus for ruling out working with the MK Party, describing their stance as "white supremacy." He predicted that a Johannesburg coalition would likely involve the ANC, EFF, IFP, PA, and MK Party. McKenzie also dismissed the influence of opinion polls, stating that they had previously underestimated the PA's support.
McKenzie acknowledged that the ANC continues to have significant support, but maintained that Kenny Kunene would become the mayor of Johannesburg. He noted that the ANC has been winning by-elections, but expressed confidence in the PA's ability to make gains in the city.
On the issue of undocumented migrants, McKenzie stated that they must leave the country. He argued that those who want to retain access to cheap labour provided by undocumented migrants do not face the same pressures over housing and schooling as those who want them to leave. McKenzie claimed that the PA's presence in government has influenced the government's position on the issue.
McKenzie concluded by emphasizing that the PA's goal is to bring about positive change in Johannesburg, including providing jobs, clean water, and other essential services. He expressed confidence that Kenny Kunene would be the right leader to achieve these goals and tackle the city's problems.
Key points
- McKenzie backs Kenny Kunene for Johannesburg mayor
- McKenzie criticizes Helen Zille's ability to tackle crime
- Patriotic Alliance open to coalition partners to achieve its goals
