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Gauteng Government Clears Lesufi Over World Cup Trip to Mexico
The Gauteng provincial government confirmed on Thursday that Premier Panyaza Lesufi used no public funds for his trip to Mexico to watch Bafana Bafana‘s opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Mexico — a clarification that came after a wave of criticism erupted on social media.
What Actually Happened
According to the provincial government, Lesufi received only stadium access tickets from Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie, who had formally invited him to attend two of South Africa’s Group Stage matches. The premier chose to attend in a private capacity, taking no government support staff and using none of the public purse.
“The premier chose to attend in his private capacity, taking no government support staff along, thus choosing not to use public funds or government protocols,” said provincial government spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga.
Why the Public Reacted
Videos of Lesufi in Mexico began circulating online, sparking immediate backlash. Many social media users questioned who was footing the bill, pointing to Gauteng’s unresolved service delivery failures — including water shortages, power outages, potholes, and broken street and traffic lights.
The anger reflects a broader frustration among South Africans, especially young people, who expect elected officials to prioritise basic services over high-profile travel.
The Bigger Picture: R9 Million Government Delegation
While Lesufi’s trip was privately funded, it has been reported that a ministerial and departmental delegation to the 2026 World Cup cost South African taxpayers approximately R9 million. That figure is likely to keep the pressure on government officials to justify World Cup spending.
Minister McKenzie’s invitation letter, dated 21 April 2026, covered two fixtures:
Government Insists Business Continues as Usual
The Gauteng government stressed that Lesufi took official leave and that governance structures remain fully operational in his absence. “Government business continues uninterrupted during the premier’s leave period,” Mhlanga said.
The statement was framed as part of the province’s commitment to transparency around the activities of public office-bearers — a commitment that critics will be watching closely in the weeks ahead.
