Patriotic Alliance slams "baseless" allegations by convicted fraudster against Gayton McKenzie
The Patriotic Alliance (PA) has issued a blistering response to recent media reports, dismissing allegations made by convicted fraudster Jermaine Prim against party president Gayton McKenzie as reckless, defamatory, and categorically false.
In a press statement released on 29 March 2026, the PA condemned an eNCA interview conducted with Prim from within a correctional facility. The party characterised the interview as a “criminal spectacle” designed to derail the work of McKenzie and the PA ahead of a critical election period.
A history of deception
The PA's defense rests heavily on Prim's extensive criminal record. Describing him as a convicted fraudster currently serving time for fraud, scams, and theft, the party argued that Prim has zero credibility. The statement noted that Prim has a proven history of deception, including past charges for impersonating the head of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
The party also clarified the history of contact between McKenzie and Prim. According to the PA, Prim reached out to McKenzie in 2020 while posing as an ordinary member of the public wanting to volunteer for the party. McKenzie reportedly cut off all contact once Prim's true identity and wider pattern of manipulation became clear, eventually lodging a complaint after Prim allegedly threatened PA members from his jail cell.
Questions over media ethics and prison security
The PA directed significant ire toward eNCA and the Department of Correctional Services (DCS). The party questioned how an inmate was able to conduct an unsupervised media interview, calling the breach of correctional regulations extraordinary and alarming.
Gayton McKenzie, who also serves as a Minister, stated that it has already been confirmed by the Department of Correctional Services that Prim did not follow proper channels. McKenzie categorically denied any links to individuals referred to as the “Big Five,” dismissing the claims as dirty politics sparked by the PA's recent success in winning five wards in communities heavily affected by drug dealing.
Legal action imminent
The Patriotic Alliance confirmed that McKenzie is moving forward with comprehensive legal proceedings. This legal targets the Commissioner and Minister of Correctional Services, eNCA and its editor, and journalist Heidi Giokos in her personal capacity. Furthermore, a formal report will be lodged with the Broadcasting Ombudsman.