MEC sidesteps question on Cheeky

SPORT, Recreation, Arts and Culture MEC Pemmy Majodina has sidestepped a question about whether under-fire president Cheeky Watson is fit to lead the troubled EP Rugby Union.

There was surprise when Watson failed to appear at a media briefing after Saturday’s chaotic annual meeting, which was later adjourned so that more clarity could be obtained on the union’s finances.

Asked if she thought Watson was still fit to lead the union, Majodina said: “I don’t appoint people to lead unions and the matter of leadership [is up to] the structures themselves.

“I am prepared to work with anyone who has been confirmed by the structure. It is not for me to make an evaluation and assessment that this person is not fit for office,” she said.

“Yes or no. I cannot because once I get into the space I will be micro-managing EP Rugby and that is not my mandate.”

Watson has maintained a low profile since holding a press briefing after he returned from Australia last year to meet with potential sponsors.

It had been expected that Watson would address the media after Saturday’s stormy AGM, but his absence was explained by Mkhululi Magada of the East Cape Sports Council.

“It was agreed the people who will speak on the matter are the office of the MEC and the office of the sports council,” he said.

While Watson was absent from the briefing, EPRU Rugby executive members Freddie Makoki and Phillip Joseph sat alongside Magada and Majodina.

There had been speculation that some disgruntled members would table a vote of no confidence in Watson and the leadership of EP Rugby at the AGM.

However, this did not take place because it was not permitted by the constitution.

The continuation of the AGM to obtain further clarity on the union’s financial situation will take place before February 28.

The Kings are also to contest a liquidation application at the Port Elizabeth High Court on March 10.

The application was brought after EP Rugby failed to meet a payment deadline for R12-million allegedly owed to a group of 18 former EP Kings players.

SA Rugby officials say if the liquidation is successful it will be unprecedented in the history of the South African game.