DA condemns Minister Gayton McKenzie’s violation of free speech in Venice Biennale submission

The Democratic Alliance has condemned Minister Gayton McKenzie’s decision to overturn South Africa’s official submission to the Venice Biennale following a completed, independent selection process.

Democratic Alliance Condemns Biennale Intervention

The party argues the move isn’t about the artwork itself, but rather the principle of process and the authority of a minister to intervene after a selection process has concluded.

Concerns regarding content, foreign policy, or reputational risk, according to the Democratic Alliance, should have been raised before the process was finalized. They state retroactive political interference undermines the credibility of South Africa’s cultural institutions.

The Democratic Alliance asserts McKenzie’s actions were not an exercise of executive discretion, but interference that establishes a dangerous precedent, subjecting cultural expression to political approval.

Consistent rules, institutional independence, and predictable governance are vital for South Africa’s creative sector, the party contends. Arbitrary reversals damage the nation’s international reputation, deter partnerships, and risk the livelihoods of those in the creative industries.

The Democratic Alliance emphasized the importance of artistic expression as independent and free from political interference, noting art serves as a nation’s conscience and provides a voice to realities that may be uncomfortable for those in power.

The party intends to report Minister McKenzie to the Public Protector for allegedly acting beyond his lawful authority and undermining due process. They are calling for an immediate reversal of the decision and respect for South Africa’s constitutional values and cultural institutions.