Although the deal still awaits formal approval from the Premier Soccer League's (PSL) Executive Committee, public scrutiny has intensified given the close relationship between the buyer and a sitting cabinet member responsible for sport.
Minister McKenzie has since publicly defended the transaction, describing it as a deeply personal milestone for his family.
In a lengthy Facebook post over the weekend, he reflected on his son's upbringing and the emotional significance of football in their lives—particularly their shared bond through the now-defunct Bloemfontein Celtic.
"You grew up seeing me through jail bars," McKenzie wrote, recalling how Calvin was born just five hours after he was incarcerated for a 17-year sentence.
"You never visited me on weekends when Siwelele played, because you and your grandfather would go watch the games together, just like I did with him."
Framing the purchase as an act of emotional reconnection, McKenzie said the deal has allowed his son to walk in the same footsteps he once shared with his own father.
"This brings you closer to me emotionally. You suffered not growing up with your dad, and I thank God for a strong mother who stood in the gap," he said.
McKenzie also confirmed that he has handed over control of the family's business interests to his son due to his own full-time political commitments. He expressed full support for Calvin's acquisition of SuperSport, claiming it fulfills a promise made at his father's deathbed — to always "look after Siwelele."
"To the people of the Free State. Siwelele is not just a team. It's our heritage, our culture, and part of our soul," McKenzie added.
Despite the minister's emotional defense, concerns remain about governance and transparency. The PSL is expected to carefully review the proposed sale before granting final approval.
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Veteran coach Gavin Hunt has paid tribute to SuperSport United following the club's sale of its Betway Premiership status to Siwelele FC - a move that effectively ends the Pretoria side's long-standing presence in South Africa's top flight.
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