Ntsiki Mazwai demands apology and compensation from Gayton McKenzie

Ntsiki Mazwai has once again taken aim at Gayton McKenzie, accusing the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture of deliberately excluding her from the South African delegation at the 33rd Havana International Book Fair in Cuba.

Despite being personally invited by the event’s organizers, Mazwai claims she was removed from the list and replaced with Unathi Nkayi.

Expressing her frustration on social media, the poet and activist insisted that she is owed both an apology and financial compensation.

“I truly believe I am owed an apology and, to be honest, compensation by the Department of Arts and Culture and Gayton McKenzie,” she posted.

To back up her claims, Mazwai shared evidence confirming that her presence was requested by name, a fact verified by Daily Maverick.

She also accused McKenzie’s department of refusing to bring a copy of The Gods Wrote: Three South African Poets—an anthology featuring her work alongside Keorapetse Kgositsile and Harry Owen—despite the book being launched at the event.

“When the Cubans asked them to take me a copy, the head of the delegation refused. I believe I am owed an apology. Even for the intimidation tactics and the bullying I was subjected to,” she added.

The department also refused to bring my copy of the book back for me. When the Cubans asked them to take me a copy, the head of the delegation refused @SportArtsCultur

I believe I am owed an apology. Even for the intimidation tactics and the bullying I was subjected to.

— NtsikiMazwaiMedia (@ntsikimazwai) March 20, 2025

I was asked for by name ……. pic.twitter.com/eymfXwKZKJ

— NtsikiMazwaiMedia (@ntsikimazwai) March 20, 2025