KZN Athletics president Steve Mkasi resigns

Mkasi announced his decision during the Prime-Time Sport show on Ukhozi FM on Wednesday night, telling presenter Victor Molefe that he was stepping down due to concerns about his mental health.

His resignation comes while his disciplinary hearing is still underway.

Mkasi had already attended the first part of the hearing and was expected to continue with the proceedings today but decided to leave his position instead.

KZNA vice-president Khura Buthelezi confirmed to SABC Sport that Mkasi had started attending his disciplinary hearing. 

“I came to SABC to say that, due to mental health concerns, I decided to resign as the president of KZNA. I am leaving the position and wish the clubs and board well going forward,” Mkasi said. 

“I informed the KZNA board about my resignation before I came to the show and explained my reasons. I have gone through a lot in the past two months, and it was starting to affect my family. I am putting my health before leadership, and this is not an easy decision.”

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Despite stepping down, Mkasi says he remains open to taking up leadership positions in the future.

Athletics South Africa (ASA) also confirmed Mkasi’s resignation, saying he had informed the executive committee of his decision to step down with immediate effect.

Mkasi, who was first elected as KZNA president in 2018, also addressed the Durban International Marathon, the challenges facing KZNA and leadership in South African athletics during the radio interview.

He says leaders must remember that their positions are about serving the people and the federation.

“A leader must respect his or her job and the people who elected him should also show respect. But the problem is that many want to lead but use the money that is meant for the federation for their own personal gain,” said Mkasi.

Mkasi was placed on precautionary suspension following a street fight with a club member.

He says he regrets what happened and is now putting his health first.

“The disciplinary committee started yesterday, and it was hard for me to sit in. Mentally and physically, I was not okay. After speaking to the doctor, he warned me that if I continued, it would affect me mentally. He told me to prioritise my mental health,” Mkasi said.