The Border Rugby Union has been plunged into turmoil following the precautionary suspension of its general manager, Mthunzi Hewu, and the termination of Katiso Mosioua's representation on the union's executive. Hewu was informed on Tuesday that he was being suspended with full pay pending an investigation into six allegations, including financial misconduct and altered minutes. The allegations against Hewu include the alteration of a letter signed by former president Zuko Badli and the amendment of meeting minutes.
The suspension of Hewu and the removal of Mosioua have sparked controversy, with union representatives disputing the legitimacy of the actions. Sport Employees Unite (SEU), which represents Hewu, argues that acting president Asanda Simoyi lacks the unilateral authority to suspend the general manager without a quorate executive resolution. According to the BRU constitution, an executive committee quorum of 50% plus one of voting executive committee members is required before valid decisions can be taken.
BRU vice-president Siphokazi Njani has disputed the suspension of Hewu, calling it null and void. Njani demanded an urgent executive meeting within 72 hours to overturn the action, citing that Simoyi's decision was unconstitutional and procedurally flawed. The SEU has also expressed concerns regarding the suspension, stating that transparency is now essential to protect both the integrity of the union and the procedural rights of Hewu.
The allegations against Hewu include possible violations of the BRU constitution and breaches of contractual duties relating to governance, reporting, financial integrity, and execution of responsibilities. Mosioua was removed from the executive for missing three consecutive meetings without acceptable cause. Attempts to get comment from Mosioua were unsuccessful, while Simoyi did not respond to inquiries.
The controversy has highlighted simmering boardroom tension within the BRU, with some accusing Simoyi of being unconstitutional and having flawed procedures. Njani emphasized that Hewu is accountable to the entire executive collective, not just Simoyi in his capacity as acting president. The SEU has called for proof of a valid executive resolution, stating that absent such proof, the suspension appears to be the act of an individual office-bearer rather than a decision of the employer structure empowered by the constitution.
The dispute has raised concerns about the governance structures of Border Rugby and the precedent set by Simoyi's actions. Njani has called for the suspension to be reversed pending a properly constituted executive resolution. The situation remains unresolved, with an urgent executive meeting yet to be convened to deliberate on the matters.
The turmoil within the BRU has sparked concerns about the impact on the union and its members. The SEU has emphasized the need for transparency and adherence to the union's constitution. The outcome of the upcoming executive meeting and the investigation into Hewu's alleged misconduct will likely have significant implications for the future of the BRU.
Key points
- The Border Rugby Union is facing turmoil over the alleged unlawful suspension of its general manager, Mthunzi Hewu.
- The suspension has been disputed by union representatives, who argue that acting president Asanda Simoyi lacks the authority to take such action.
- An urgent executive meeting is set to be convened to deliberate on the matters and potentially resolve the controversy.
