SARU folds in the face of minister's intervention

NEWS: The South African Rugby Union has postponed a planned Special General Meeting to consider a proposal to conclude a private equity investment in the sport’s commercial rights.

The about-turn came at the request of Gayton McKenzie, the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture.

The meeting was scheduled to take place in Cape Town on Thursday, October 17, but will now be rescheduled at the minister’s request to more fully brief the government on the proposal.

“We received the request from the minister this [Wednesday] morning and we are happy to oblige, having shared the request with our member union presidents,” said SARU President Mark Alexander.

“We had previously briefed him on his appointment, but we understand his request for further assurance considering the newsworthiness of this proposal.”

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NEWS: Saru faces backlash for equity dealhttps://t.co/QtTlmlRakP

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The Minister said in his letter: “It is always important that levels of consultation and information sharing are adequate in matters such as these, especially when regarding matters of significant public interest.

“I would therefore like to humbly request that tomorrow’s scheduled meeting to decide on the way forward with your members be postponed so that I can be fully apprised of the particulars surrounding this proposed deal, or any deal that may be agreed to through your structures.”

Alexander said: “We look forward to providing any information the Minister may require.

“We believe that the proposed partnership, along with our identified partner, offers an opportunity for organic growth rather than simply serving as a cash injection.

“Importantly, it ensures that the Springboks will remain under the control and direction of SARU, safeguarding the future of our organisation.”

A new date for the SGM before year-end will only be confirmed after the engagement with the minister.