Sport minister disband Boxing SA Board

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Sport minister Gayton McKenzie has dissolved Boxing South Africa(BSA) Board that had been at the helm for three months.

The board chaired by Sifiso Shongwe was appointed by predecessor Zizi Kodwa in May, met parliament portfolio committee on sport, arts and culture on Tuesday over governance challenges.

It is understood that litigation cost against the minister on the issue of the appointment of BSA Board is one of issues raised in the committee.

According to the department of sport, the National Professional Boxing Promoters’ Association lodged a case against the minister on the grounds that no consultation was done before the board was appointed.

The committee gave the minister twenty one days to produce a detailed plan of action to address the challenges plaguing the entity.

Although the minister had initially indicated that he would oppose the matter in court – the department said it was, however, noted that the case is costing the department excessive amounts of money.

“The minister has been clear that funds allocated to the department must be prudently used for the benefit of athletes and creatives.  

“After consulting with the current board of Boxing South Africa, the minister has taken a decision not to continue to oppose the application brought by the NPBPA.

Decision taken in the interest of Boxing

“Consequently, the minister will dissolve the board of Boxing South Africa. This decision is taken in the interest of Boxing South Africa and the sport as a whole,” the statement read.

The department highlighted that interim measures in relation to governance will be put in place to ensure that Boxing SA continues to deliver on its mandate.

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McKenzie expressed his gratitude to the outgoing board for the sterling work that they [board] have done during the few months they were in office.

He added; “This decision is in no way a reflection on them or their efforts, but restarting the appointment process is now the most responsible thing we can do. I would like to thank them for their understanding of the decision and for putting the sport first.”