Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie to take eNCA to court over prison claims

Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie denies allegations he sent mobile phones to an inmate, vowing to take legal action against eNCA, its journalist, and correctional officials. The Patriotic Alliance (PA) has announced that its leader, Gayton McKenzie, will take legal action against National Correctional Services Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale, Minister of Correctional Services Pieter Groenewald, broadcaster eNCA, its editor, and journalist Heidi Giokos in their personal capacity. The move follows an interview with inmateJermaine Prim, who alleged that McKenzie sent two mobile phones to him while he was in prison.

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has strongly condemned the telephonic interview, which was conducted at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre, confirming that an investigation has been launched into how it took place. In a statement issued on Saturday, DCS spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said the interview occurred without the approval of the National Commissioner. “This engagement, conducted without the approval of the National Commissioner, represents a clear violation of established Standard Operating Procedures.” He added that media houses must formally apply for permission to interview offenders to ensure that security, legal processes and victims’ rights are not compromised.