Patriotic Alliance Leader Gayton McKenzie Criticizes Media Bias During Election Campaign

Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader Gayton McKenzie publicly addressed concerns regarding media coverage of his party as voters across South Africa participated in local government elections this week. Speaking after casting his ballot at the Norman Doubell voting station in Bloemfontein, McKenzie claimed that his party has been subjected to unfair treatment by certain media outlets throughout the campaign period.

Despite these grievances, the minister of sport, arts and culture expressed confidence in his party's electoral prospects. McKenzie, who founded the PA in 2013, stated that he expects the organization to perform well, telling reporters, "We’ve got to be one of the best parties, you must watch the space." The PA has seen significant growth since the 2021 municipal elections, where it secured 77 council seats and established itself as a frequent kingmaker in coalition governments.

The party's current goal is to become the fourth-largest political force in the country. However, recent polling data from Ipsos suggests a more difficult path, projecting the PA to receive approximately 2% of the national vote. These forecasts place the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) ahead of the PA, with the EFF expected to maintain its position as the fourth-largest party behind the African National Congress, the Democratic Alliance, and the MK Party.

The PA's rise has been marked by both electoral successes and internal controversies. In April 2024, the party achieved a notable victory in the Swartland Local Municipality, and in October 2025, it secured a ward in Johannesburg previously held by the ANC. Conversely, the party has faced scrutiny over allegations of cadre deployment within the ministry of sport, arts and culture, as well as questions regarding the professional appointments of former staff members.

In response to what the party characterizes as persistent media bias, the PA has implemented a policy restricting local media from interviewing its members. McKenzie has emphasized a grassroots approach to campaigning, noting that he and his supporters have focused on direct engagement with voters rather than relying on traditional war rooms or centralized operations. As part of his final campaign push, he returned to the Central Karoo, a region where he served as mayor in 2022.

The broader political landscape remains competitive as other leaders urge citizens to participate in the democratic process. Herman Mashaba, president of ActionSA and a mayoral candidate for Johannesburg, encouraged voters to turn out in high numbers. Speaking at the Sandton Fire Station, Mashaba emphasized the importance of civic participation, stating that voters have the collective power to determine the future leadership of both the city and the country.

As the counting of ballots begins, the focus remains on whether the Patriotic Alliance can translate its recent growth into a higher national standing. McKenzie’s political career, which transitioned from business to a prominent role in the government of national unity, continues to be a focal point of the current election cycle as the nation navigates its shifting political alliances.