Die ding ruk alweer in Western Province Rugby’s boardroom, with executive committee member Peter Jooste reportedly stepping down from his position over the weekend.
In a letter addressed to president Zelt Marais and published by Rugby365, Jooste says: “Serving the game has become secondary to a thirst for power and control...
“As the leadership, we have lost the moral high ground to lead and in its place, is disrespect, a dysfunctional organisation and downright antagonism that is leading a once-proud organisation to the brink of a precipice. I cannot be part of such leadership…”
Meanwhile, chairman Ebrahim Rasool responded to Marais’ accusation that he “betrayed” WP Rugby by leaking a Saru-WP advisory committee letter to clubs.
This comes after Marais allegedly refused to circulate a letter relating to the sale and redevelopment of Newlands.
The letter was intended to be issued by WP’s advisory committee to members of the board and clubs.
Marais requested an amendment to the notice and when that was refused, he didn’t send info with the meeting pack.
Instead, Rasool later admitted to sending it out, which set Marais on the warpath with the chair.
In a statement addressed to the media, Rasool writes: “I am not in rugby for name, fame or wealth.
“I simply bring some experience and a love for the game and the franchise. I fear neither of the two threats.
“What I do fear is megalomania by someone who already has centralised all power in his person – president of WPRFU, Board Member of WPPR, Acting CEO of WPRFU, Head of the Finance Committee, and now leader of a War Room, nullifying the established structures of WP Rugby...”
Marais faces a vote of no confidence today.