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The Democratic Alliance (DA) has intensifying its investigation into Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie, alleging potential breaches of ethics laws and misuse of public funds. In a fresh submission to the Public Protector, the DA highlighted concerns over McKenzie's appointments and a high-profile R31 million World Cup delegation.

According to the DA, at least 19 individuals with ties to the Patriotic Alliance (PA) have been appointed to boards of public entities under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. These appointments include positions on boards of institutions like the National Library of South Africa, the National Arts Council, the National Film and Video Foundation, and the Robben Island Museum. The DA contends that these appointments raise concerns about conflicts of interest.

Moreover, the DA's latest complaint expands its earlier allegations regarding McKenzie's R31-million World Cup trip. The party argues that the composition of the delegation may have violated government rules governing official travel, with McKenzie bringing more than the permitted two support staff members. Potgieter, the DA spokesperson on Sport, Arts and Culture, stated that McKenzie's delegation included his chief of staff, private and appointment secretary, spokesperson, and two ministerial support staff.

The DA also cited remarks from McKenzie during a recent Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture meeting, where he denied that political affiliations influenced appointments at the National Arts Council. The DA insists that the Public Protector must now scrutinize this claim against the new evidence provided in their supplementary complaint.